6.1 Development of management options · K:\N0988 HEARNS LAKE ESTUARY MANAGEMENT...

$: 6.1 Development of management options · K:\N0988 HEARNS LAKE ESTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN\DOCS\R.N0988.004.03.EMP.DOC 6 STRATEGIES FOR ESTUARY MANAGEMENT 6.1 Development of management$
STRATEGIES FOR ESTUARY MANAGEMENT 37

K:\N0988 HEARNS LAKE ESTUARY MANAGEMENT PLAN\DOCS\R.N0988.004.03.EMP.DOC

6 STRATEGIES FOR ESTUARY MANAGEMENT

6.1 Development of management options

6.1.1 Community suggestions

The community survey (refer Section 3.1) provided an opportunity for community members to offer

suggestions on how to achieve long-term sustainability of Hearnes Lake. More than 60 different

potential options were put forward within the questionnaires. The community overwhelmingly

suggested extensive controls on future development, ranging from total exclusion to the

establishment of vegetated buffers around the foreshores.

The community also consistently suggested improvements to access and facilities around the lake to

improve the public amenity of Hearnes Lake. For other issues, however, there were conflicting

suggestions from the community, particularly in regards to control and management of dogs, 4WD

access, artificial entrance opening, management of the old timber fishing cottages, and dredging

within the lake.

6.1.2 Short-listed options

In considering the objectives of the Estuary Management Plan and potential wider environmental

impacts, a short-list of potential future management options was established for further investigation

and assessment. These options were essentially derived from the community suggestions,

supplemented by additional input from the study team and the CEMAC.

These potential management options are documented below based on the primary implementation

mechanisms.

6.1.2.1 Planning, management and conservation of land

PMC-1. Acquire and preserve foreshore land.

As part of future lot redevelopment, acquire land around the Hearnes Lake foreshore that is

inappropriate for development and is considered necessary to protect the lake from development

impacts. This land should include, as a minimum, all lands within a 50 metre landward buffer of the

RL 3.5m AHD contour (refer Section 9.4)1. The acquired land should be rezoned to environmental

protection. This would require amendment to the existing Hearnes Lake Developer Contributions

Plan, or a Regional Contributions Plan.

Land within 50 metres of the RL 3.5m AHD contour is shown in Figure 6-1.

Timeframe: Medium term (3 – 5 years).

PMC-2. Incorporate foreshore and coastal buffers into CCRP.

1 A 50m buffer from the 3.5m AHD contour will result in a much larger buffer (up to 200m) from the future MHW level within

the lake (assuming a 0.9m sea level rise), particularly around the southern portion of the lake.



Following acquisition of foreshore land as part of PMC-1, the foreshore buffer should be incorporated

into the Coffs Coast Regional Park to enable pro-active management by both Council and DECC.

The buffer along the coast as well as the existing Crown land dune between Hearnes Lake and Willis

Creek (which contain the gazetted SEPP-26 Littoral Rainforest) should also be incorporated to the

Coffs Coast Regional Park to provide connectivity of the park along the coast.


Figure 6-1 Buffer from future development (50m from RL 3.5m AHD contour)



PMC-3. Prevent inappropriate vegetation removal.

Establish statutory planning requirements preventing removal of native vegetation throughout the

Hearnes Lake catchment, and especially around the foreshores. This should include clearing of

understorey, and excessive lopping or removal of individual trees that inhibit views. These

requirements should strengthen any existing Tree Preservation Orders and the provisions of the

Native Vegetation Act.

Timeframe: Short term (1 – 3 years).

PMC-4. Consider lake impacts in highway re-routing.

The RTA and Council should carefully consider the potential impacts on Hearnes Lake of any

upgrading to the Pacific Highway. In this regard, conditions should be imposed on future roadworks

that prevent detrimental environmental impacts, including modifications to hydrologic regimes,

sediment loads and pollutant contamination (including trace metals from road runoff). Any increase in

traffic as a result of road improvements would also increase the potential for spills, which may impact

on Hearnes Lake. It is suggested that all runoff from any new highway be treated prior to discharge

into environmentally sensitive areas, such as Hearnes Lake.

The proposed highway upgrading plans developed by the RTA are shown in Figure 6-2. These plans

show that the upgrade will essentially remain within the existing highway alignment in the vicinity of

Hearnes Lake with the inclusion of an overpass connecting Graham Drive to Hearnes Lake Road,

and a realigned western end of Hearnes Lake road as it connects to the local feeder road (refer

South Woolgoolga Interchange inset within Figure 6-2).


PMC-5. Conservation of privately owned vegetation.

Areas of significant native vegetation on privately owned land within the catchment should be

identified. Relevant landowners should then be encouraged, through provision of incentives, to

conserve these vegetated areas through formal conservation agreements with DECC, Council or

NRCMA, where consistent with native vegetation conservation priorities. Conservation agreements

should incorporate the re-establishment of a 50 metre vegetated buffer around the existing vegetation

stands to help reduce the impacts of edge effects. Significant privately owned vegetation in the

Hearnes Lake catchment is shown indicatively in Figure 6-3.


PMC-6. Prevent artificial opening of lake entrance unless for exceptional circumstances.

Artificial modification of Hearnes Lake entrance through manual opening or similar should be

prohibited, except under an exceptional circumstance whereby there is a significant and scientifically

validated risk to human health or the environment that can be effectively abated through temporary

entrance modification. Such circumstances may include, for example, overflows from the sewerage

system, or a spill on the Pacific Highway. Artificial management of the entrance to control flooding

and foreshore inundation (including when inundated with natural marine debris) should be prohibited.




Figure 6-2 Proposed Pacific Highway upgrade route (source: RTA, 2006)



Figure 6-3 Significant private vegetation

PMC-7. Consider lake impacts in effluent reuse farm expansion.

An effluent reuse farm is currently in operation within the catchment, adjacent to Double Crossing

Creek. Prior to the expansion of this operation, a comprehensive assessment should be carried out

to ensure that it will not have any significant negative impact on the water quality and/or freshwater

inundation above background levels of Double Crossing Creek or Hearnes Lake and their foreshores,

and adjacent marine park systems. A cursory assessment carried out as part of the Estuary

Processes Study (WBM, 2006) suggested that the existing operation is not having a notable impact

on the water quality of receiving waters.


PMC-8. Amend SEPP-14 to include estuarine vegetation communities of Hearnes Lake.

To recognise the regional importance of the Hearnes Lake wetlands area, the mapped estuarine

vegetation (as determined through recent DPI mapping as part of the CCA) should be included in

SEPP-14 Coastal Wetlands, which would require an amendment to SEPP-14. Of particular

importance are the extensive saltmarsh areas around the southern part of the lake, and the

mangroves and saltmarsh on the alluvial islands at the confluence of Double Crossing Creek.

Inclusion in SEPP-14 would significantly increase the conservation potential of these areas

(especially in regards to grazing, clearing and earthworks).

An area possibly suitable for inclusion in SEPP-14 is shown in Figure 6-4.




Figure 6-4 Possible SEPP-14 Expansion Area at Hearnes Lake



6.1.2.2 Development controls

DC-1. Buffer lake from future development.

Future development should not be permitted to encroach too close to the lake foreshores and

tributaries. In order to maintain ecological integrity and accommodate future sea level rise, future

urban development should be set back at least 50 metres from the RL 3.5m AHD contour (refer

Section 9.4) (refer Figure 6-1). The buffer area between the lake and the development should be

revegetated, where necessary, and not used to provide essential urban services, such as stormwater

treatment, or used (cleared) to provide an asset protection zone for the future dwellings.

The need for a buffer between the lake and future development was advocated by a majority of

respondents to the questionnaire. The size of the buffer, however, varied from 50 metres to 1km.

Some respondents indicated that development should be permitted on the western side of the

highway only (with the eastern side preserved for environmental values), while others indicated that

no future development should be allowed within the catchment.

The Hearnes Lake / Sandy Beach DCP included a buffer around the lake of 50 metres from the RL

3.5m AHD, based on preliminary investigations carried out as part of the Hearnes Lake Estuary

Processes Study (refer Section 9.4). Draft LEP Amendment No. 29 has formalised this buffer by

rezoning the foreshore land to environmental protection, thus preventing its use for future urban

development.

Timeframe: Immediately (12 – 18 months).

DC-2. Limit runoff and pollutant loads from future development

All future development within the Hearnes Lake catchment should incorporate a range of measures

aimed at reducing the volumetric runoff and pollutant loads that a generated from the development

and are directed to the lake. These measures should follow the basic principles of Water Sensitive

Urban Design and Integrated Water Cycle Management, and should incorporate a range of lot-based,

streetscape and end-of-line treatment measures and devices. End-of-line devices should be installed

prior to land development works to control sediment runoff during construction stages.

Targets for volumetric runoff and pollutant load reductions should be established on a development

by development basis, and should aim to achieve a net positive environmental outcome (ie lower

pollutant loading to the lake) compared to the existing conditions. Treatment of existing catchment

runoff (particularly existing urban runoff) can be considered by developers as a means to help

achieve a net positive environmental outcome for the lake.


DC-3. Compensatory revegetation to offset future development

Any removal of native vegetation within the catchment associated with future development should be

offset by appropriate and sufficient compensatory revegetation. This revegetation should ideally

occur on the development lot. Compensatory revegetation outside the Hearnes Lake catchment

should not be permitted. The amount and type of revegetation required should be determined



scientifically, eg DECC Biometric and Threatened Species Assessment tools, with a minimum ratio of

2:1 (ie 2 units revegetated per 1 unit cleared).


DC-4. Revegetated private lands to be conserved

As a supplement to DC-3, all lands revegetated as part of compensatory works for future

development should be dedicated to conservation through appropriate agreements (with DECC,

Council and/or NRCMA) and relevant modifications to land titles. Once dedicated, such lands could

be free of rates charges, but should provide opportunity for appropriate public access and enjoyment.

Responsibility for maintenance would remain with the landowner unless negotiated otherwise as part

of the conservation agreement.


DC-5. Limit population within feeder area

Hearnes Lake is an important recreational and social amenity to the existing local residents (including

residents that live outside the actual lake catchment, but are prepared to travel to the lake to enjoy its

values). The capacity of the lake to accommodate users is finite however. A significant increase in

the number of users of the lake would diminish its values. In particular, there would be increased

disturbance of ‘native plants and animals’, and reduced potential for ‘peace and tranquillity’ – these

being the two highest regarded values as determined through the community survey (refer Section

4.2.1).

Proposed populations associated with future developments should be considered carefully in light of

the potential increased demand on the lake for social and recreational amenity. This should be

applied to all proposed developments within a 5 km radius of Hearnes Lake, not just those within the

catchment itself, as it is likely that future residents will travel to take advantage of Hearnes Lake.


DC-6. Developer contributions to recreational facilities and amenities

Future development will result in an increased demand on existing recreational facilities and

amenities around the lake. The increased usage of the lake will also impose an increased demand

for better access to the lake foreshore and along the lake shores.

Developers should be required to provide financial contributions to upgrading or improving

recreational facilities and amenities around Hearnes Lake. The actual amounts provided by

developers should be based on the population associated with individual developments, subject to

negotiations with Council.


DC-7. Promote eco-friendly development.

Future developments within the catchment should be compassionate to the environmental sensitivity

of the area, with positive steps taken to foster a bond between future residents and the natural



environment (i.e. eco-friendly developments only), including appropriate fire, weed, agriculture and

wildlife management.

Similarly, developments that do not promote and accommodate the natural sensitivity of the

environment should be discouraged.


6.1.2.3 Rehabilitation works

R-1. Connect caravan park to reticulated sewerage system.

A reticulated sewerage network has recently been established along the Coffs Coast northern

beaches. Colonial Surfside Caravan Park is not currently connected to the sewerage system.

Instead, sewage generated from the caravan park is treated on-site via settlement ponds and

infiltration.

To prevent leaching of sewage to Hearnes Lake, the effluent from the Caravan Park should be

diverted to the reticulated sewerage system via a connection to the trunk sewer mains.


R-2. Audit on-site systems and upgrade as necessary

All on-site sewage systems within the Hearnes Lake catchment, and particularly those located close

to natural watercourses, should be critically appraised for efficiency and potential leaching to natural

waterways and drainage lines. All deficient systems should be replaced by the landholder, or

connected to the reticulated sewerage system if considered feasible.

Greywater reuse schemes should be encouraged through incentives, to minimise the total volume of

effluent discharged to the environment. For low-lying systems (< RL 3.5m AHD), then replacement

systems should involve storage tanks and periodic pump-out, or connection to the reticulated system.


R-3. Appropriately manage existing and future sewerage system

A reticulated sewerage system located close to a natural waterway (and an ICOLL in particular)

introduces an element of risk in respect to system overflows and bypassing. Existing elements of the

sewerage system should be assessed for potential under-capacity (leading to overflows and

bypassing into Hearnes Lake), while all future components of the local sewerage system should be

adequately designed to minimise discharges to the environment.

Future components of the sewerage system should also be designed to accommodate future sea

level rise. In particular, sewage pumping stations and overflows should be located above a level of

RL 3.5m AHD if a design life of 100yrs or so is to be adopted.




R-4. Treat stormwater runoff from Sandy Beach village and caravan park

Existing surface runoff from the Sandy Beach village as well as from hardstand areas around the

Colonial Surfside Caravan Park are directed to Hearnes Lake. This runoff should be intercepted and

reduced to minimise potential negative impacts to adjacent marine park ecosystems, and treated

prior to discharge to the waterway. Stormwater management options should aim to i) reduce the

quantity of volumetric runoff from infiltration and stormwater harvesting approaches (including

retrospective installation of rainwater tanks), and ii) reduce the concentrations of pollutants (sediment

and nutrients) within the runoff through sedimentation, filtration and biological uptake (including for

example, artificial wetlands, sediment traps and bio-retention swales).

Locations for stormwater treatment measures should consider the potential for future sea and lake

level rise within their nominated design lives.


R-5. Catch sediment wash-off from driveways, road verges and car parks

There are a number of unsealed private and public roads, verges and carparks within the Hearnes

Lake catchment, including along Hearnes Lake Road. Runoff from these unsealed areas should be

captured and detained to allow sedimentation prior to discharge into the lake and natural waterways.


R-6. Revegetation of foreshores and areas within catchment

Important areas within the Hearnes Lake catchment should be targeted for revegetation where

existing vegetation is sparse or absent. Such areas would include the foreshores of the lake

(extending up to at least 50 metres from the RL 3.5m AHD contour to accord with the future

development buffer recommendations – see Option DC-1 and Figure 6-1), as well as riparian zones

around Double Crossing Creek and other smaller tributaries. In addition, revegetation should target

areas that re-establish wildlife corridors between forested areas across the landscape.

Of particular importance is the revegetation and re-establishment of wildlife linkage between the

remnant littoral rainforest pockets along the northern foreshore of Hearnes Lake and the SEPP-26

Littoral Rainforest area behind coastal dunes to the north of the lake entrance. This revegetation

would involve works on currently privately owned land, and/or the removal of, and subsequent

revegetation around, the old timber fishing cottages located on Crown land to the immediate north of

the lake entrance along with revegetation of the existing carparking area (refer Figure 6-5).

It is acknowledged that the Northern Rivers CMA is already working with some private landholders to

remediate steep lands in the vicinity of Hearnes Lake through the Steep Lands Project, co-ordinated

through Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare. This project is aimed mainly at old or disused banana

lands. Rehabilitation of steep erodable lands will reduce potential for catchment erosion and thus

sediment infill of Hearnes Lake.




Figure 6-5 Proposed revegetation north of Hearnes Lake entrance

R-7. Rehabilitate former timber mill and other degraded lands

A disused timber mill is located adjacent to Double Crossing Creek, upstream of the Pacific Highway

crossing. It is expected that this land would be contaminated to some degree as a result of the

industrial chemical and production at the site in the past.

An environmental audit of the site should be carried out followed by appropriate rehabilitation. The

extent of site rehabilitation would depend on the degree of contamination. As a minimum, any

remaining stockpiles should be removed and the site fully revegetated and conserved.

Other areas of degraded land within the catchment, such as former banana plantations, should also

be rehabilitated in a similar manner.


R-8. Remove environmental weeds and control pests

Bushland areas around Hearnes Lake and within the catchment should be maintained through the

removal of environmental weeds and the control of feral animals and other pests. In particular, bitou

bush and lantana on the eastern side of the lake threaten the value of these natural bushland areas.



For bushland on public land, weed removal and pest control can be carried out by volunteer groups,

work for the dole programs, green corps, etc, under the co-ordination of Council. For bushland on

private lands, incentives should be offered to landholders for undertaking maintenance.


R-9. Remove cattle from lake margins and fence across waterway

Cattle currently graze on private land surrounding the southern end of Hearnes Lake. Grazing

extends into the shallow lake margins, with trampling of saltmarsh and damage to mangrove

seedlings (refer Figure 6-6). A wire fence has been constructed across the southern end of the lake

to prevent cattle from moving off the private land. The fence actually extends across public land, with

grazing of mangroves seedlings on the public land behind the fenceline. The impact of grazing is

obvious when comparing the condition of mangrove seedlings from one side of the fence to the other.

Grazing within the shallow lake margins should be prevented, particularly on public land. As a

minimum, the fence across the waterway should be removed, and fencing along the actual property

boundary erected to prevent cattle migration onto public land. Ideally, all cattle should be removed

from the low-lying areas surrounding the lake. This could be achieved through incentives offered to

landholders.


Figure 6-6 Impacts of cattle grazing on mangroves and saltmarsh



6.1.2.4 Amenity works and controls

A-1. Prepare and implement a foreshore access improvement plan

Hearnes Lake and its foreshores provide a significant amenity to the local population. Therefore,

significant effort should be given to developing a long-term plan to establishing an appropriate level of

access and recreation around the lake. This plan should cater for the expected significant increase in

demand on Hearnes Lake as an amenity once potential development is realised. Care should be

taken, however, to ensure that unfettered access to the lake does not degrade the habitats and

scenic amenity of the environment that makes the area attractive.

The Foreshore Access Improvement Plan should incorporate the following:

• Improving condition of existing walking tracks;

• Bank stabilisation where existing tracks are being threatened (especially along northern

foreshore);

• A formal walking / cycling track along public land in front of the Colonial Surfside Caravan Park;

• Removal of existing footbridge and construction of a more engineered boardwalk connecting the

proposed Caravan Park walkway to the northern foreshore walkway;

• Possible connection of foreshore tracks / cycleway with regional facilities (eg Coffs to

Woolgoolga cycleway);

• Formalisation of access tracks over coastal dunes

Any new access infrastructure would need to accommodate future sea and lake level rise within the

context of the proposed design life of the works.

The Plan should also be prepared to allow future amenity works to be implemented in a staged

manner as foreshore lands are returned to public ownership (as recommended by Strategy PMC-1).


A-2. Install and maintain additional picnic facilities and amenities

Many members of the community identified a lack of picnic facilities and public amenities around

Hearnes Lake, including picnic tables, barbeques, shelters and toilets. The need for facilities will

increase further as the local catchment population increases following future urban development.

Additional facilities and amenities should be erected around the lake to cater for the existing and

future demands on the lake. Of notable importance are waste bins. These bins would also need to

be serviced on a regular basis.


A-3. Rationalise 4WD access to beach

Four wheel drive (4WD) vehicles can currently access the beach via a degraded and variable track

along the northern edge of Hearnes Lake entrance. The issue of 4WD access to the beach along this

track inspires community comments from both sides.



4WD access to the beach is considered important, but this should not be at the expense of

environmental damage or endangering other users of the lake and foreshore. Given the dynamic

nature of the lake entrance area, vehicles sometimes drive through part of the entrance channel to

access the beach.

It is proposed that 4WD access to the beach be considered in light of a more regional strategy for

vehicular beach access. Ideally, and in the long term, alternative vehicular beach access should be

provided.


Figure 6-7 4WD beach access at Hearnes Lake entrance

A-4. Rationalise dog exercising areas on beach

Both on-leash and off-leash dog exercising is carried out along the beach in front of Hearnes Lake.

Again this issue has inspired considerable debate and comment by the community as part of the

survey, with both calls for tighter restrictions and for no restrictions. Justification for tighter restrictions

has been based on i) the disturbance to wildlife, and birds in particular, ii) the non-removal of faeces

from the beach, thus diminishing the enjoyment of other beach users, and iii) the lack of control over

animals.

It is recommended that dog owners be strongly encouraged to control animals and clean up all

faeces from the beach area. Some bins and bag stations are already provided at main entry points to

beach, however, these can be made more obvious. It is recommended that an ‘on-leash’ only area

be established within 500 metres of the lake entrance, extending up to Willis Creek and Flat Top



Point. Provision of a designated off-leash section of the beach should be considered as part of a

more regional approach to dog-exercising, and should take into account the potential for disturbance

of native fauna and the loss of amenity for the general public. Any change to the permissibility of

dogs should be accompanied by immediate and periodic patrolling, and warnings / fines for non-

compliance.


A-5. Discourage motorised vessels on the lake

The relatively small size of Hearnes Lake limits opportunity for boating. However, given its small size,

motorised boating within the lake has a larger potential for disturbance of wildlife, and detracting from

the natural setting of the environment.

Whilst it is not considered necessary to ban motorised boats from the lake, their use should be

discouraged through the lack of boat launching provisions and trailer parking. In contrast, carry-in

canoe launching facilities could be provided to encourage non-motorised vessel use.


6.1.2.5 Heritage works and controls

H-1. Consider retention and restoration of a fishing cottage at lake entrance

A small number of old timber fishing cottages are located on Crown land to the immediate north of

Hearnes Lake entrance (refer Figure 6-8). Permissive Occupancy leases over these properties are

non-transferable, meaning that they are progressively relinquished as the lessees hand back rights or

die. Some cottages that were in poor condition have been demolished in recent years. It is

understood that there are approximately four cottages remaining on Crown land. The future of these

cottages is to be determined by the Department of Lands, and subject to the timeframes of natural

attrition.

The cottages are located in the middle of a narrow vegetated corridor between the lake and the

littoral rainforest to the north of the lake. Therefore, there would be significant environmental benefit if

the cottages were removed and the land rehabilitated to provide a continuous link of natural

vegetation. From a heritage perspective, however, one of the cottages could be retained and

restored. The heritage value of such a cottage would need to be balanced by the expected cost of

restoration and on-going maintenance (it may be subject to vandalism if not lived in permanently).




Figure 6-8 Existing timber fishing cottages at lake entrance

6.1.2.6 Education

E-1. Raise awareness of habitat values of Hearnes Lake and importance of SIMP

Public awareness of the environmental values and importance of Hearnes Lake should be raised

through a targeted education campaign and on-going community consultation.

Community education for both permanent resident and temporary visitors to the area should focus on

nutrient reduction, vegetation management (including replacement of non-native with native

vegetation), domestic pet and companion animal management, species conservation, legal fishing

bag limits and size restrictions, and bushfire management.

The public education campaign should be supported by eco-educational signage appropriately

erected around the lake (maybe in concert with implementation of the foreshore access improvement

plan).

As Hearnes Lake is part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, considerable effort should be made to

emphasise the significance of Hearnes Lake to the Marine Park, and the associated restrictions on

activities within Hearnes Lake as a result of the Marine Park zoning.




E-2. Raise awareness of cultural values

Hearnes Lake offers considerable cultural values based on previous Aboriginal occupation and early

European activities. The cultural elements of Hearnes Lake and surrounding areas should be

promoted as part of a community education program, including appropriate signage around the area.

Promotion of cultural values could also be fostered through a schools education program, which may

dovetail an eco-educational program for Hearnes Lake.


E-3. Raise awareness regarding the risks to users of the lake

Hearnes Lake receives bacterial inputs from catchment sources, particularly after rainfall. Whilst the

sources are to be addressed as part of this Plan, it is recommended that appropriate signage be

placed around the lake in areas of high recreational use advising of potential water quality risks.

Signage should suggest that swimming in Hearnes Lake should be avoided following rainfall

(although water quality data indicates that high bacterial levels are not restricted to rainfall events

only, refer WBM, 2006). Given the lack of permanent connection between the lake waters and the

ocean, Hearnes Lake is likely to be more susceptible to bacterial contamination that other estuaries,

with less potential for natural abatement of risk with time.


E-4. Rural education program promoting best practice techniques for environmental

management

Existing agricultural areas within the catchment represent a significant potential for pollutant

generation. A targeted education program should be developed aimed at getting rural landholders to

adopt more environmentally-friendly agricultural practices. In particular, a rural education program

should target chemical use, sediment control (including from unsealed driveways), stock exclusion

and off-stream watering, effluent treatment and reuse, gully erosion stabilisation, and native

vegetation management.

Incentives should be used to encourage landholders to adopt better practice environmental

management techniques. Incentives should also be used to encourage additional revegetation of

privately owned lands, especially along creeklines and natural watercourses.


E-5. Establish and support a community-based volunteer conservation group

The Hearnes Lake Coastcare Group has historically been involved in rehabilitating and revegetating

the northern foreshore of Hearnes Lake (refer Figure 6-9). The aim of this strategy is establish a

community-based volunteer group that would be able to assist in some of the on-ground works

recommended by this Plan, such as weed removal, revegetation and general foreshore clean-ups. In

doing so, the group would foster a greater appreciation of the natural environment by the residents of

Hearnes Lake.



Such a group would require formal management of volunteers and instructions to ensure works are

carried out appropriately and with appropriate financial and resource support by Council. The

previous Coastcare Group was managed by Coffs Harbour Council’s Landcare Support and

Development Officer (CHCC). The community group formed under this management strategy could

either be created as a separate group and would cover the entire Hearnes Lake area, or could

expand on the existing Hearnes Lake Coastcare Group.


Figure 6-9 Current Coastcare rehabilitation plan for Hearnes Lake entrance area

E-6. Periodically distribute newsletter to residents regarding Estuary Management Plan

Many of the residents around Hearnes Lake are genuinely concerned and interested in the future of

the lake. Periodic newsletters should be distributed to interested community members regarding the

progress of the Estuary Management Plan. The newsletters, which should aim to be prepared

annually (and possibly distributed via rates notices or similar), should indicate what has been

achieved and completed during the previous 12 months, and what is proposed to be done in the

immediate future, by Council and other support agencies.

If there is little progress on the Plan, then an informed community may be able to lobby local Council

representatives to ensure that suitable funding and resources are allocated to the Plan in the future in

order to achieve the desired long-term objectives for Hearnes Lake.




6.1.2.7 Monitoring

M-1. Monitor water quality for human health

Given its protected waters, Hearnes Lake is a popular location for swimming, kayaking and other

water-based recreational activities. The intermittent nature of the lake entrance, however, means that

the lake tends to accumulate pollutants, including pathogens and bacteria that are potentially harmful

to human health.

A program of regular water quality monitoring should be carried out in order to provide a better

indication of the suitability of the waters for primary contact recreation activities, such as swimming.

Council has collected water samples in Hearnes Lake on behalf of the Department of Environment

and Conservation (formerly EPA) Beachwatch Program in the past (data provided in the Hearnes

Lake Estuary Processes Study, WBM, 2006). The water quality monitoring program should target

indicators for the risks to human health, such as enterococci, faecal coliforms and/or faecal sterols.

Signage should be installed at key recreation areas of the lake informing the public of the risks

associated with primary contact activities. Signage should be based on the outcome of the

monitoring and updated periodically, as appropriate.


M-2. Monitor water levels and water quality within the lake and tributaries for environmental

purposes

In addition to monitoring the water for human health reasons, water levels and water quality of

Hearnes Lake should also be periodically monitored and evaluated to improve our appreciation and

understanding of the environmental processes that occur within the lake, and to provide an indication

of the overall environmental health of the system.

There is relatively little scientific data on the condition of the waters within Hearnes Lake or the

tributaries that feed the lake. Water quality and water level data covering both the lake and the

tributaries can be used to determine the condition of the in-situ waters of the lake, as well as

determine the contribution of pollutants to the lake from the catchment. Improved knowledge on

pollutant sources and loads will improve opportunities for mitigation in the future.


M-3. Periodically re-map aquatic vegetation around Hearnes Lake

On a periodic basis, the aquatic vegetation around Hearnes Lake should be mapped via detailed on-

ground survey and air photograph interpretation. Comparisons with previous vegetation maps can

provide an indication of trends in vegetation behaviour, particularly in relation to other environmental

variable, such as rainfall patterns, water levels, and water quality.

The Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) have recently completed estuarine vegetation

mapping of Hearnes Lake as part of a state-wide Comprehensive Coastal Assessment (CCA)

Project. Re-mapping of the vegetation should be carried out every 5 years or so.




M-4. Periodically monitor a range of biological indicators to help assess estuarine health

Whilst water quality can provide an initial indication of waterway condition, a range of biological

parameters also need to be considered when determining the overall health of an estuary. Therefore,

in order to provide a measure of estuarine health, and to gauge how this health is either improving or

declining in the future, it is necessary to monitor a range of biological indicators. Such indications

would include estuarine vegetation (extents and condition), algae, benthic fauna, mobile aquatic

fauna (fish, prawns etc), and avifauna (birds).

Monitoring of estuarine health will be important when evaluating the long-term effectiveness of this

Plan.


M-5. Periodically monitor the recreational use of Hearnes Lake and foreshore areas

The proposed development around Hearnes Lake is likely to result in an increase in recreational use

of the lake and foreshores. Monitoring of recreational use of Hearnes Lake should be carried out

before, during and after this development becomes realised to enable better management of the

demands placed on resources and facilities associated recreational activities around Hearnes Lake.

Monitoring of recreational use should also be carried out before and after any major investment into

amenities and facilities around Hearnes Lake in order to gain an appreciation for utilisation of the

resources by the general public.


6.1.2.8 Administration and Enforcement

AE-1. Agencies to incorporate relevant EMP strategies into short and long term works and

investment programs

A successful Estuary Management Plan will only be achieved once all relevant agencies have made

substantial effort to carry out those tasks that they are responsible for. To ensure that agencies make

sufficient effort, it is important that the strategies outlined in this Plan are transferred across to the

individual short and long term works and investment programs of these agencies. This way, sufficient

funds and resources can be allocated to the actions as part of routine forward planning.

It is presumed that endorsement of this Plan by the relevant agencies indicates a willingness to assist

with implementation of the various strategies within the timeframes nominated by the Plan.


AE-2. Increase enforcement of fishing and other environmental protection regulations

There are already a number of regulations associated with protecting the environment, ranging from

pollution control (including littering and sedimentation) to recreational fishing bag limits and sizes (and

taking of females with eggs etc). Given that Hearnes Lake is part of the Solitary Islands Marine Park,



extra effort should be provided in ensuring that its environment is not degraded from activities that are

already regulated.

This strategy involves increasing resources to enforce existing regulations aimed at protecting the

environment. Enforcement would be carried out by various agencies charged with responsibility for

different regulations. For example, Council is responsible for sediment and erosion control

associated with new development, while the Marine Parks Authority is responsible for enforcing

fishing and recreational activities within the MPA waters (including Hearnes Lake).


6.1.3 Strategies – Objectives Matrix

The short-listed options described above have been developed to address one or more of the specific

objectives for future management of Hearnes Lake (as established in Section 5.2). Table 6-1

provides a matrix of the short-listed options / strategies and the relevant objectives to which they

satisfy. Two ticks (��) within the matrix indicates that the option / strategy meets the objective

directly, whereas, one tick (�) indicates that the option / strategy only partially satisfies the objective,

or meets it in an indirect manner.

Table 6-1 shows that all objectives are satisfied by at least one option / strategy. Some objectives,

particularly Objectives 1, 2 and 11, are addressed by a large number of options / strategies, while

some strategies help to satisfy multiple objectives (especially strategies PMC-6, PMC-8, DC-1, DC-7,

R-1 and E-4).



Table 6-1 Objectives and Options / Strategies Matrix

Management Objectives 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Management Options

PMC-1 Acquire and preserve foreshore land ��

PMC-2 Incorporate foreshore land into CCRP � � ��

PMC-3 Prevent inappropriate vegetation removal ��

PMC-4 Consider lake impacts in highway re-routing � � ��

PMC-5 Conservation of privately owned vegetation ��

PMC-6 Prevent artificial opening of lake entrance unless for exceptional circumstances � � ��

PMC-7 Consider lake impacts in effluent reuse farm expansion � � ��

PMC-8 Amend SEPP-14 to include estuarine vegetation communities of Hearnes Lake ��

DC-1 Buffer lake from future development ��

DC-2 Limit runoff and pollutant loads from future development � � ��

DC-3 Compensatory revegetation to offset future development ��

DC-4 Revegetated private lands to be conserved � ��

DC-5 Limit population within feeder area � �

DC-6 Developer contributions to recreational facilities and amenities ��

DC-7 Promote eco-friendly development � � � � ��

R-1 Connect caravan park to reticulated sewerage system ��

R-2 Audit on-site systems and upgrade as necessary ��

R-3 Appropriately manage existing and future sewerage system ��

R-4 Treat stormwater runoff from Sandy Beach village and caravan park � ��

R-5 Catch sediment wash-off from driveways, road verges and car parks ��

R-6 Revegetation of foreshores and within catchment ��

R-7 Rehabilitate former Timber Mill and other degraded lands � ��

R-8 Remove environmental weeds and control pests ��

R-9 Remove cattle from lake margins and fence across waterway ��

A-1 Prepare and implement a foreshore access improvement plan � � � ��

A-2 Install and maintain additional picnic facilities and amenities ��

A-3 Rationalise 4WD access to beach � � ��

A-4 Rationalise dog exercising areas on beach ��

A-5 Discourage motorised vessels on the lake ��

H-1 Retain and restore one fishing cottage at lake entrance ��

E-1 Raise awareness of habitat values of Hearnes Lake and importance of SIMP � � � � ��

E-2 Raise awareness of cultural values ��

E-3 Raise awareness regarding the risks to users of the lake ��

E-4 Rural education program promoting best practice techniques for environmental management � � ��

E-5 Establish and support a community-based volunteer conservation group ��

E-6 Periodically distribute newletter to residents regarding Estuary Management Plan ��

M-1 Monitor water quality for human health ��

M-2 Monitor water levels and water quality within the lake and tributaries for environmental purposes ��

M-3 Periodically re-map aquatic vegetation around Hearnes Lake ��

M-4 Periodically monitor a range of biological indicators to help assess estuarine health ��

M-5 Periodically monitor the recreational use of Hearnes Lake and foreshore areas ��

AE-1 Agencies to incorporate EMP strategies into short and long term works programs ��

AE-2 Increase enforcement of fishing and other environmental protection regulations ��



6.2 Assessment and Prioritisation of Management Strategies

The short-listed options / strategies have been assessed and prioritised in order to provide a

proposed ranking for implementation. The greatest benefits to Hearnes Lake will be gained if the

most effective options are implemented first. A multi criteria decision making process has been

adopted to compare and prioritise the short listed management options.

Preferred management options have been determined by consideration of the following criteria:

1. Effectiveness of the option in addressing specific management objectives;

2. Acceptance of the option by community and stakeholders;

3. Cost of implementation of the option;

4. Number and priority of objectives that the option meets;

5. Requirements for completion of other management options;

6. Options should have a range of different implementation approaches; and

7. Options should have a range of different implementation timeframes.

For criteria No. 6, ‘different implementation approaches’ include:

• Administration and Enforcement;

• Education;

• Planning, Management and Conservation;

• Development Controls;

• Rehabilitation;

• Heritage;

• Amenity; and

• Monitoring

For criteria No. 7, the different timeframes considered, include:

• Immediately (12 – 18 months);

• Short Term (1 – 3 years); and

• Medium term (3 – 5 years).



Much of the information used in the decision making process was obtained from the community and

stakeholders groups.

The preferred order of implementation basically represents the most efficient and effective approach

to management of the estuary from an outcomes viewpoint.

6.2.1 Results of the Multi Criteria Assessment

The results of the multi criteria assessment are shown in Appendix B.

Figure 6-10 shows a graphical representation of the relative score for the short-listed management

strategies. The scores presented in Figure 6-10 take into consideration the number of objectives

addressed by each option, the relative priority, or importance, of each objective addressed (refer

Section 5.3), the relative cost of implementation, and the relative effectiveness and acceptability of

the option.

Strategy prioritisation has been assigned the following levels:

• Critical: indicating that implementation of these particular strategies must take precedence over

other strategies within existing funding and resource limitations;

• Very High: indicating that these strategies are also very important and should take precedence

over lower order strategies;

• High: indicating that these strategies are still important, but implementation may be delayed in

preference for completion of critical and very high priority strategies;

• Medium: indicating that these strategies are not as important as the higher order strategies.

These strategies should still be implemented when funding and resources become available; and

• Low: indicating that these strategies have the least potential to make significant difference to the

Hearnes Lake environment. These strategies will, however, still benefit some aspects of

Hearnes Lake, and as such, should be implemented when funding and resources becomes

available, and once higher order strategies have been completed.

Strategy prioritisation is independent on the prescribed timeframes, as many strategies are not

required to be carried out until some time in the future (for example when proposed development

commences within the catchment, or upon completion of a preceding strategy).

6.2.2 Combining of Strategies

Following consultation with Coffs Harbour City Council, a number of strategies were combined and

consolidated in order to reduce the total number required for implementation. A summary of the

strategy consolidation is provided below:

• New WSUD strategy DC-2: Combining former DC-2, R-4 and R-5

• New Water Quality strategy M-1: Combining former M-1 and M-2

• New Vegetation strategy PMC-3: Combining PMC-3, DC-3 and DC-4

• New Recreation strategy A-1: Combining former A-1, A-3, A-4, A-5 and M-5

• New Amenity strategy A-2: Combining former A-2 and DC-6



Figure 6-10 Relative prioritisation / scoring of short-listed strategies / options

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

DC-1

DC-2

PMC-6

PMC-8

PMC-1

DC-3

R-8

E-5

R-9

R-1

E-4

A-4

DC-4

PMC-4

PMC-7

E-1

R-5

R-2

R-6

R-3

DC-7

PMC-2

PMC-3

R-4

A-5

R-7

A-3

AE-2

A-1

AE-1

M-1

M-2

M-3

M-4

M-5

E-3

PMC-5

E-2

E-6

DC-5

DC-6

A-2

H-1

Relative Score

CR

IT-

IC

AL

ME

DIU

MH

IGH

VE

RY

HIG

HL

OW



Once combined, some of the priorities of these new, consolidated strategies has also changed. DC-2

remains critical; DC-3 and A-1 are very high; and M-1 and A-2 are medium priorities.

6.2.3 Non-Preferred Strategies

In addition to consolidation of several strategies, consultation with CHCC resulted in the removal of

some additional short-listed strategies given potential difficulties in implementation, or if they were

being addressed through other mechanisms.

Strategies removed from the short-list include:

AE-2 AE-1 DC-5 E-6

6.2.4 Order of Implementation

A total of 29 strategies have been established as a final list of prioritised works that should be

implemented as part of the Hearnes Lake Estuary Management Plan.

The proposed order of implementation of these 29 strategies is presented in Table 6-2. This

prioritisation assumes that all proposed works can be achieved within the nominated timeframes. If

delays in implementation occur, then this prioritisation should be modified to ensure that critical and

high priority strategies are still carried out within the timeframes nominated in the Plan, at the

expense of lower order priority tasks.



Table 6-2 Order of implementation for short-listed strategies / options

Strategies

Immediate Short Term Medium Term

Critical DC-1 PMC-6 DC-2

Very High E-5 R-9 R-1 E-4 A-1

PMC-8 R-8

PMC-3

PMC-1

High R-2 DC-7

PMC-4 PMC-7

E-1 R-6 R-3

PMC-2 R-7

Medium M-1 E-3

M-3 M-4 A-2

Low PMC-5 E-2 H-1

Order of implementation

Immediate Short Term Medium Term

Critical 1

3

8

Very High 2

5

11

High 4

7

13

Medium 6

10

14

Low 9

12

15

IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULES 64


7 IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULES

A program for implementation of the Hearnes Lake Estuary Management Plan has been developed

with tasks spanning approximately 5 years. The implementation details for each separate estuary

management strategy are provided in the following schedules.

The implementation details are presented in the form of ‘schedules’, and provide information on

specific actions required to implement each strategy, as well as indicative costs, timeframes,

maintenance requirements, responsibilities for implementation, and ‘performance measures’ to define

the success of implementation. Comments are also provided for each strategy, which includes

background information relevant to the implementation of the strategy and cross-references to other

similar strategies.

The schedules are designed to provide the information in a ‘quick reference’ format to facilitate

implementation and adoption by the responsible authorities.



CRITICAL STRATEGIES



DC-1 – Buffer around lake from future development

Priority: CRITICAL

Strategy: Establish a buffer around Hearnes Lake that precludes any future development, including

any works (eg stormwater treatment) or clearing (eg bushfire protection) associated with future

development.

Timeframe: Immediately (12 – 18 months)

Responsibility: CHCC

Cost: Staff time only

Performance Measure: Buffer around lake that is included in LEP and prohibits all future

development.

Actions:

Action Ref No. Action description Underway Complete

DC-1-1 Include buffer into site specific DCP � �

DC-1-2 Include buffer as environmental protection land as

amendment to LEP 2000. Ensure prohibited uses

include stormwater treatment, clearing for bushfire

asset protection, general vegetation clearing, bulk

earthworks and similar

� �

DC-1-3 Include buffer as Environmental Protection Zone E3 –

Env. Management, or E2 – Environmental

Conservation, or similar, in proposed LEP review

� �

Comments:

The Hearnes Lake / Sandy Beach DCP includes a buffer around the Hearnes Lake waterway defined

as 50 metres from the RL 3.5m AHD contour (refer Section 9.4). This buffer is included in draft LEP

Amendment No. 29, which is currently with the Minister for consideration and approval. An

environmental constraints assessment by Sainty and Associates (2006) for Lot 22 DP 1070182 (the

land surrounding the southern portion of Hearnes Lake) concludes that buffers be placed around

Endangered Ecological Communities and the beach frontal dunes, while a general environmental

lake buffer be implemented to protect the environment and ecology of the lake based on the RL 3.5m

AHD contour. Sainty and Associates (2006) suggest, however, that some filling of land may be

acceptable to achieve a minimum level of RL 3.5m AHD providing the filled land is not within other

stipulated environmental buffers.

See also:

PMC-1, PMC-2, PMC-3, R-6



PMC-6 – Prevent artificial opening of lake entrance

Priority: CRITICAL

Strategy: Unless for exceptional circumstances, artificial opening of the Hearnes Lake entrance

should be prohibited.

Timeframe: Short term (1 – 3 years)

Responsibility: CHCC (support by DECC, Department of Lands, DPI-Fisheries)


Performance Measure: Formal policy adopted by Council.

Actions:


PMC-6-1 Prepare a formal entrance management policy for

Hearnes Lake outlining when and how entrance can

be artificially opened (eg only if there is a significant

and credible risk to human health). This may be a

component of a broader entrance management policy

covering all Council’s ICOLLs and coastal creeks.

� �

PMC-6-2 Give consideration to artificial entrance management

when assigning zonings and prohibited / permissible

developments as part of the proposed LEP review, in

accordance with the LEP template.

� �

Comments:

The entrance to Hearnes Lake has not been artificial opened for many years (not in recent memory),

however, an increase in local population and an increase in recreational demand imposed on the lake

may result in pressure from the community to artificially modify the entrance based on a perception of

poor water quality and/or inundation of foreshore assets and access.

The policy should clearly articulate that artificial opening of the entrance will not be permitted for the

purposes of flood mitigation. All future development and foreshore infrastructure should instead be

considerate of the risks associated with flooding and foreshore inundation over the entire life of the

development (taking into account changes associated with sea level rise etc).

The policy should also outline the development assessment and approvals process for artificial

entrance opening (when / if required) giving consideration to environmental impacts and mitigation

measures.

See also:

E-1



DC-2 – Manage stormwater from existing and future development through adopting WSUD principles

Priority: CRITICAL

Strategy: Develop and adopt a Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) policy and review the Urban

Stormwater Management Plan with investigations into sensitive areas. Best practice would include

implementation of Water Sensitive Urban Design and Integrated Water Cycle Management (including

stormwater harvesting and reuse), which are aimed at reducing stormwater runoff flows and pollutant

loads from urban areas by adopting a range of options including Gross Pollutant Traps (GPT),

rainwater tanks (with reuse for garden and lawn watering, toilet flush, laundry, hot water services,

etc), infiltration systems, grass swales (instead of kerb and guttering) and bio-retention basins.

Timeframe: Medium (3 – 5 years)


Cost: $300,000, as well as staff time

Performance Measure: Increase in pollutant and sediment loads entering Hearnes Lake within

acceptable limits – no increase preferable.

Actions:


DC-2-1 Develop and adopt a Water Sensitive Urban Design policy supporting water management with objectives DCP

� �

DC-2-2 Review Urban Stormwater Management Plan, and develop and implement a stormwater management strategy for Sandy Beach village to identify and prioritise stormwater management works and initiatives

� �

DC-2-3 Identify roadways within the catchment that potentially result in sediment runoff to waterways. Prioritise roadways based on proximity to waterways, surface gradient and other locations.

� �

DC-2-4 On a prioritised basis, construct sediment filtering measures to intercept sediment runoff prior to discharge to waterways.

� �

DC-2-5 One-on-one discussions with Colonial Surfside Caravan Park regarding options for managing surface water runoff to Hearnes Lake, and agree on terms of incentives for Caravan Park to undertake works.

� �

Comments:

To ensure that future development within the Hearnes Lake catchment has minimal impact on the

condition of the estuary, it will be necessary that all future developments implement a rigorous total

water cycle management system, incorporating the capture and reuse of stormwater. The most



effective way to ensure that ‘best practice’ stormwater management is implemented as part of all

future developments is to prepare and adopt a new Water Sensitive Urban Design Policy.

See also:

DC-7



VERY HIGH PRIORITY STRATEGIES



E-5 – Community-based volunteer group

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: Establish and continue to support a local community-based volunteer conservation group to

assist with on-ground management tasks associated with Hearnes Lake.

Timeframe: Immediate (12 – 18 months)

Responsibility: CHCC (Landcare Support and Development Officer)

Cost: Staff time only, plus $5,000 /yr for materials and services

Performance Measure: Active and well attended volunteer group.

Actions:


E-5-1 Using the existing Coastcare group as a starting point,

advertise locally for interest in establishing a volunteer

group. This should include signage around the lake,

especially where works are planned.

� �

E-5-2 Prepare a works program for the volunteer group with

sufficient funds and resources to meet the program

within a desired timeframe.

� �

E-5-3 Co-ordinate regular (eg monthly) working days for the

volunteer group and provide with direction and

support.

� �

Comments:

The existing Hearnes Lake Coastcare Group has been responsible for rehabilitation and revegetation

around the Hearnes Lake entrance in the past. This group is not regularly meeting and has limited

membership.

A new volunteer group, or a revitalisation of the existing Coastcare Group, should target existing

residents, as well as new residents as they move to the area. Contributions to the group should also

be sought from local businesses, especially those who benefit from an improved environment (eg

caravan park).

The group is to be facilitated and supported through Council’s Landcare co-ordinator, and will assist

with undertaking manual environmental works around Hearnes Lake, such as weed eradication,

revegetation, access formalisation, signage erection and small infrastructure construction.

See also:

R-6, R-8



R-9 – Remove cattle from lake margins

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: Cattle grazing along the periphery of Hearnes Lake, both within private and public lands,

are presently degrading foreshores and destroying vegetation (notably mangrove seedlings). These

cattle are to be excluded from the immediate lake area.


Responsibility: CHCC (support by DECC)

Cost: Depending on incentives offered to landowners – say $50,000.

Performance Measure: No cattle within sensitive fringe environments of Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


R-9-1 Initiate discussions with landowners regarding removal

of cattle and acceptable terms of agreement for

financial recompense or similar.

� �

R-9-2 Impose exclusion of cattle from lake margins are a

condition of consent for any future development on the

subject land

� �

R-9-3 Rezone land to an appropriate environmental (or

waterway) zoning as part of the proposed LEP review,

and prohibit cattle grazing within this zoning as part of

the LEP.

� �

Comments:

Exclusion of cattle will require fencing, both along property boundaries to prevent migration into public

lands, and along the lake edge to prevent migration into the waterway. Some areas of the lake

waterway are in private ownership, so exclusion of stock from these parts will require incentives to be

offered to landowners.

Much of the land being damaged by cattle is Endangered Ecological Community – Coastal

Saltmarsh. Protection of this land can therefore be aided through the application of the Threatened

Species Conservation Act 1995 and/or the Fisheries Management Act 1994.

See also:

PMC-1, PMC-3, R-6



R-1 – Connect caravan park to reticulated sewerage

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: Connection of the wastewater system within the Colonial Surfside Caravan Park to

Council’s reticulated sewerage system, so that effluent is transferred to Woolgoolga STP for

treatment rather than going to on-site treatment ponds.


Responsibility: Proprietor (support by CHCC)

Cost: $50,000 (not including any headworks or mains)

Performance Measure: All wastewater generated from caravan park collected by reticulated

sewerage system and treated at Woolgoolga STP.

Actions:


R-1-1 Design and construct trunk sewerage mains, taking

into consideration potential future population demand

on mains

� �

R-1-2 Design and construct connection of Caravan Park

wastewater system to sewer mains � �

Comments:

It is suspected that the existing on-site sewage treatment ponds at the caravan park contribute to

poor water quality within Hearnes Lake, particularly following rainfall. Poor quality water within

Hearnes Lake compromises the value of the waterway for social and environmental uses, including

swimming, fishing and passive boating. Excessive nutrients within the waterway can also lead to

algae blooms and odour.

Costs are likely to be high, and as a result, connection to date has been delayed pending possible

construction of trunk works for proposed future residential development of adjacent lands.

See also:

R-2



E-4 – Rural education program

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: To address excessive pollutant inputs entering the lake from upstream sources, a targeted

rural education program is to be developed aimed to achieving best-practice environmental

management throughout the rural community.


Responsibility: DPI-Ag (support from CHCC, NRCMA)

Cost: $20,000 /yr for program + incentives

Performance Measure: Number of rural landholders that change their practices and reduce pollutant

loads discharged to Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


E-4-1 Building on existing programs (CHCC, NRCMA, DPI),

prepare a target education program addressing

practices such as chemical and fertiliser use, sediment

control (including unsealed driveways), stock

exclusion, off-stream watering, effluent treatment and

reuse, gully erosion stabilisation, and vegetation

management.

� �

E-4-2 Implement education program through one-on-one

discussions, local field days / display areas, brochures,

information packs etc.

� �

E-4-3 Provide incentives to landholders to implement best

practice environmental management (financial,

resources, certification etc)

� �

Comments:

The NRCMA Steep Lands Project, implemented with Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare Incorporated

(CHRL), is already engaging local landholders regarding stabilisation and rehabilitation of steep

catchment lands. This program should build on existing initiatives underway by the NRCMA and DPI-

Agriculture.

Rehabilitated / revegetated lands could be covered by Conservation Agreements for further

environmental and landholder benefit (including rate relief, funding for management etc).

See also:

PMC-3, PMC-5, R-6, R-8, R-9, E-1



A-1 – Review and rationalise the current recreational uses of the estuary

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: The creation of a Foreshore Plan of Management (FPoM) to review and develop strategies

and to present environmental information is required to preserve the environmental sensitivity of the

area. Strategies to be considered include:

• discourage powered boats within Hearnes Lake, and encourage non-powered boats by providing

free canoe mooring facilities;

• Council policy for all dogs to be on leashes;

• 4WD access removed or relocated etc.

• plans for increased walking/cycle tracks around the locality.

Whilst it is recognised that areas must be provided that are suitable for exercising of dogs and for the

access of 4WD vehicles, the existing mix of dogs, people, vehicles and the environment at Hearnes

Lake Beach (Woolgoolga back beach) and around the fringes of Hearnes Lake, results in conflict.

The conflicting uses of the locality must be rationalised to ensure public safety and the environmental

quality of the area is preserved.


Responsibility: CHCC (support by DECC, MPA)

Cost: $100,000, plus staff time. Cost to implement amenity works and infrastructure to be met, in

part, by developer contributions.

Performance Measure: Adopted Plan that guides the management of future recreational use of the

lake and its surrounds.

Actions:


A-1-1 Implement a survey-based monitoring program

targeting users of Hearnes Lake and surrounds, in

order to gauge number and popularity of different

recreational uses of the estuary. Survey should

include monitoring of walking trails, dog walking on the

beach, 4WD users and boating/kayaking popularity

� �

A-1-2 Prepare a Foreshore Plan of Management (FPoM), for

the area presenting findings of the survey, with

justification regarding potential environmental damage

caused by the activities. Seek community input, and

Council to adopt. FPoM to include:

- Rationalisation of 4WD access and dog walking

� �



activities;

- Ensure no boat ramps are constructed within the

estuary, but include a free canoe launching facility

- Improve condition of existing walking tracks and

expand walking / cycling track along public land;

- Connection of foreshore tracks / cycleway with

regional facilities.

A-1-3 Implement findings of study with notification of

changes through signage, brochures and

advertisements.

� �

A-1-4 Regularly enforce restrictions and prohibitions through

ranger patrols at prime time exercising periods (eg

early morning, late afternoon, weekends).

� �

A-1-5 Repeat survey-based monitoring on a periodic basis

(every 5 years, say) depending on the speed of urban

development within the catchment and wider feeder

area.

� �

Comments:

Basic information obtained from the community as part of the Estuary Processes Study provides a

rudimentary indication of types of use. This information can form the basis for the development of a

more detailed user survey.

It is recommended that dog owners be strongly encouraged to control animals and clean up all

faeces from the beach area. Some bins and bag stations are already provided at main entry points to

beach, however, these can be made more obvious. It is recommended that an ‘on-leash’ only area be

established within 500 metres of the lake entrance, extending up to Willis Creek and Flat Top Point.

Provision of a designated off-leash section of the beach should be considered as part of a more

regional approach to dog-exercising, and should take into account the potential for disturbance of

native fauna and the loss of amenity for the general public.

The existing vehicular access is essentially to the lake edge. Only under favourable conditions can

4WDs then access the beach without travelling though the entrance channel waterway. Irregular

rocky outcrops within the entrance channel pose substantial risk to vehicles. The beach is located on

Crown land, which falls within the Solitary Islands Marine Park and the Coffs Coast Regional Park in

parts. Alternative access to the beach may also need to transect the Coffs Coast Regional Park.

Four wheel drive (4WD) vehicles can currently access the beach via a degraded and variable track

along the northern edge of Hearnes Lake entrance. The issue of 4WD access to the beach along this

track inspires community comments from both sides. 4WD access to the beach is considered

important, but this should not be at the expense of environmental damage or endangering other users

of the lake and foreshore. Given the dynamic nature of the lake entrance area, vehicles sometimes

drive through part of the entrance channel to access the beach. It is proposed that 4WD access to

the beach be considered in light of a more regional strategy for vehicular beach access. Ideally, and

in the long term, alternative vehicular beach access should be provided.



Existing motorised vessel usage on Hearnes Lake is minimal. Motorised vessels are likely to disturb

fauna (especially cryptic bird species) and detract from the natural setting of the environment (thus

reducing amenity).

The Foreshore Plan of Management should also incorporate the following:

• Improving condition of existing walking tracks;

• Bank stabilisation where existing tracks are being threatened (especially along northern

foreshore);

• A formal walking / cycling track along public land in front of the Caravan Park;

• Removal of existing footbridge and construction of a more engineered boardwalk connecting the

proposed Caravan Park walkway to the northern foreshore walkway;

• Possible connection of foreshore tracks / cycleway with regional facilities;

• Formalisation of access tracks over coastal dunes

See also:

PMC-1, R-6, A-2



PMC-8 – Amend SEPP-14 to include Hearnes Lake

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: Using the most recent estuarine habitat mapping of Hearnes Lake undertaken by DPI-

Fisheries, include key habitat areas in Hearnes Lake within SEPP-14 legislation.

Timeframe: Short Term (1 – 3 years)

Responsibility: Department of Planning (support by DPI-Fisheries, DECC, NRCMA, CHCC)


Performance Measure: Gazetted amendment to SEPP-14 that includes new areas of coastal wetland

within Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


PMC-8-1 Building on recent habitat mapping (DPI-Fisheries,

Sainty, 2006), identify an area around Hearnes Lake

that should be protected by SEPP-14. This should

include existing habitat, and potential habitat to

accommodate predicted sea level rise.

� �

PMC-8-2 Draft amendment to SEPP-14 and consult with

affected landholders. � �

PMC-8-3 Approval of amendment by Minister for Planning and

formal gazettal of amended SEPP. � �

Comments:

Whilst protection of habitats could be achieved through rezoning of land under the proposed LEP

review, the timeframe for this review (~ 5 years) is considered too long to address immediate

concerns regarding vegetation clearing, excavation and cattle grazing. Inclusion of this area under

SEPP-14 would also highlight its significance at a state level (not just a local level).

See also:

PMC-1, DC-1, R-6, R-8, E-1, M-3

Refer Figure 6-4 for possible SEPP-14 expansion area.



R-8 – Remove environmental weeds and pests

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: Removal of environmental weeds (including for example bitou bush and lantana), and

control of pests (including for example feral cats and foxes) from private lands, Council-controlled

public lands, and the Coffs Coast Regional Park.

Timeframe: Short Term (1 – 3 years)

Responsibility: CHCC (support from DECC, community volunteer group, other environmental

volunteer groups, NRCMA)

Cost: Incentives for private land management, plus resources for volunteer groups, say $20,000 /yr

Performance Measure: Reduction in the number and extents of environmental weeds and pests

around Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


R-8-1 Link strategies and actions from the CHCC Pest

Management Strategy, Coffs Coast Regional Park

Weed and Pest Management Strategies to the

Hearnes Lake area

� �

R-8-2 Support volunteer groups and other labour resources,

as available, co-ordinated through the Landcare

Support Officer.

� �

R-8-3 Provide incentives and education to private

landholders within the catchment and around the lake

to better manage environmental weeds and pests.

� �

Comments:

Management of weeds and pests needs to extend into the upper catchment areas as well as around

the lake margins and along the coastal fringe (including the littoral rainforest area to the north of

Hearnes Lake entrance, and throughout the Coffs Coast Regional Park).

Works on public lands can be carried out by the community-based volunteer group, as well as other

environmental volunteer groups (eg Green Corps) or Work for the Dole programs. Environmental

management programs could also be established with local Aboriginal communities and educational

centres.

See also:

E-4, E-5



PMC-3 – Appropriate vegetation management

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Review and strengthen planning instruments (e.g. City-wide Vegetation Strategy) ensuring

development restrictions for the unnecessary removal of vegetation or lopping of trees, requirements

for compensatory replanting of any cleared vegetation (at an appropriate ratio) and the compulsory

maintenance and conservation of these revegetated lands by property owners. Compulsory

replanting of vegetation shall be situated within the locality from which it was removed.

Timeframe: Short Term (1 – 3 yrs)



Performance Measure: Modified planning instruments that better protect existing vegetation,

including inappropriate lopping of trees.

Actions:


PMC-3-1 Review existing planning instruments (eg DCP, LEP,

TPO) to determine the existing conservation status of

all native vegetation.

� �

PMC-3-2 As necessary, amend existing planning instruments, or

prepare additional instruments, to ensure that no

existing native vegetation is permitted to be cleared

without detailed consideration of environmental

consequences.

� �

PMC-3-3 Amend DCP, as appropriate, to promote ‘filtered

views’ rather than ‘water views’ or ‘lake views’

(implying that some obstruction by vegetation should

always be expected)

� �

PMC-3-4 Modify existing DCPs and/or prepare a new shire-wide

DCP to require compensatory revegetation to be

subject to compulsory Conservation Agreement with

permanent connection to land title (following

vegetation establishment and maintenance period).

� �

Comments:

The conservation of vegetation is underpinned by a range of different legislation depending on the

zoning of the land. The review of existing planning instruments needs to scrutinise the documents to

ensure that possible loop holes in the ‘grey’ areas do not permit the removal of valuable vegetation.



All substantial stands of existing native vegetation should be retained when considering future

development of areas within the catchment. These areas should thus be incorporated into proposed

open space areas, and if possible, linked to other areas of existing vegetation through proposed

additional rehabilitation works to improve their value in the future.

The amount and type of compensatory revegetation should be established scientifically using the

DECC Biometric Tool or similar. As a guide, revegetation should be ‘like for like’, at a ratio of 2:1 (that

is, 2 hectares of revegetation per hectare cleared). Areas revegetated, once well established, should

be considered for Conservation Agreements with DECC or the NRCMA.

The Conservation Agreements should be attached to the title of the land parcel, thus ensuring that

the Agreement, and the associated vegetation, is retained in the future.

See also:

PMC-2, PMC-5, E-1



PMC-1 – Acquire and preserve foreshore land

Priority: VERY HIGH

Strategy: As lands become developed around Hearnes Lake, appropriate foreshore buffers should

be returned to public ownership. These buffers should be zoned accordingly to protect them from

future degradation.

Timeframe: Medium Term (3 – 5 years) – or as land around the lake is developed.


Cost: Staff time only with land handed over as part of development consent conditions. Maintenance

costs for new public land to be considered relative to acquisition of asset.

Performance Measure: Extent of foreshore land (including appropriate buffers to future development)

returned to public ownership around Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


PMC-1-1 Identify lands subject to acquisition upon development,

and rezone to an appropriate environmental protection

zoning, which excludes future development as part of

proposed LEP review, in accordance with LEP

template.

� �

PMC-1-2 Modify existing local and/or regional Developer

Contributions Plans to require hand-over of foreshore

land as a component of Developer Contributions for

each future development.

� �

Comments:

Lands subject to acquisition may correspond to the environmental buffer established as part of the

Hearnes Lake / Sandy Beach DCP, which encompasses all foreshore land up to a distance of 50

metres from the RL 3.5m AHD contour.

See also:

DC-1, PMC-2, R-6



HIGH PRIORITY STRATEGIES



R-2 – Audit on-site sewage systems

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Carry out immediate and then periodic audits of all on-site sewage management systems

located within the Hearnes Lake catchment. All deficient systems are to be repaired or replaced by

the landholder.




Performance Measure: Record of compliance / non-compliance for all on-site systems, and record of

replacement of non-compliant systems, thus reducing pollutant inputs to Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


R-2-1 Undertake audit / assessment of all on-site sewage

systems within Hearnes Lake catchment � �

R-2-2 For deficient systems, issue defect notice requiring

landholder to repair / replace system within a given

timeframe.

� �

R-2-3 Repeat audits on periodic basis � �

Comments:

Apart from the higher density urban area of Sandy Beach, all development within the Hearnes Lake

catchment is serviced by on-site sewage management systems. These sewage systems may

represented a major source of bacteria, pathogens and nutrients to the lake, as many would be old

and dysfunctional.

Every on-site sewage treatment system is to be assessed / audited, along with the surrounding soil

conditions (eg permeability), to determine the likely potential of the system to pollute the environment.

Systems that are found to be inappropriate should be repaired or replaced by landholders.

Alternatives may include aerated holding tanks and regular pump-out, or surface disposal and

evaporation, or a combination of treatments. Given the relatively close proximity of sites to the

reticulated sewerage system, consideration could also be given to connecting some lots to the

sewerage system.

Any on-site systems located below a level of RL 3.5m AHD should be replaced with a storage tank

and pump-out facilities, or connected to the reticulated network.

See also:

R-1, E-1, E-4



DC-7 – Promote eco-friendly development

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Future development within the Hearnes Lake catchment should be carried out in a manner

which gives consideration to the sensitivity of the natural environment. This should be ensured by

placing strict controls on development with respect to environmental issues.




Performance Measure: Eco-friendly concepts included in all new developments.

Actions:


DC-7-1 Review Hearnes Lake / Sandy Beach DCP for

consistency with the principles of eco-friendly

development. Modify the DCP where inconsistencies

are found.

� �

DC-7-2 Introduce development controls to areas beyond the

Hearnes Lake / Sandy Beach DCP boundary that

incorporate the principles of eco-friendly development.

� �

Comments:

Eco-friendly development is considered to incorporate:

• vegetated foreshore and riparian buffers (minimum 50 metres);

• Additional bushfire buffer, beyond the vegetated buffer requirements;

• On-site stormwater management and re-use provisions, including grass swales instead of kerb

and guttering;

• Retention of all existing native vegetation, and rehabilitation of existing degraded environments;

• Strong focus on pedestrian and cycleways;

• Limitations on domestic animals to prevent predation on native fauna, and

• Urban design that compassionately merges the built and natural environments to give an

ecological slant to developments.

Refer to the Coastal Design Guidelines (DoP, 2003) for further details.

See also:

PMC-3, DC-2, E-1



PMC-4 – Highway upgrade considerations

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Ensure that the impacts on lake environments are considered when planning and

constructing upgrades of the Pacific Highway through the Hearnes Lake catchment.


Responsibility: RTA


Performance Measure: No degradation of the Hearnes Lake environment following upgrading of the

Pacific Highway through the catchment.

Actions:


PMC-4-1 Environmental assessments for highway upgrade to

consider the unique and sensitive environment of

Hearnes Lake, especially the intermittent hydrological

regime and the sensitivity to input loads (including

sediment)

� �

PMC-4-2 Design mitigative measures to prevent degradation of

Hearnes Lake. This should include pre-treatment of

all highway runoff before discharge to natural

waterways, and oil arrestors to limit impacts of spills.

� �

PMC-4-3 Implement best management practices during

construction of the highway upgrade to prevent

impacts on Hearnes Lake and tributaries, especially in

respect to erosion and sediment control.

� �

Comments:

The proposed highway upgrade between Sapphire and Woolgoolga has already identified a preferred

route. The RTA has lodged an application for project approval with the Department of Planning.

Further consultation is planned by the RTA prior to finalising of the project.

See also:

M-1



PMC-7 – Effluent reuse farm expansion considerations

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: The existing effluent reuse farm located adjacent to Double Crossing Creek is planned for

expansion. Any expansion of this facility should first ensure that there will be no detrimental impacts

on the Hearnes Lake receiving water, especially any nutrient enrichment of waters, or excessive

microbiological contamination.

Timeframe: Short Term


Cost: Staff time only, or $50,000 for external consultant

Performance Measure: No measurable impact on nutrients of bacteria in Double Crossing Creek

following expansion of the effluent reuse farm.

Actions:


PMC-7-1 Undertake water balance and pollutant load

assessment to determine capacity of farm to

accommodate additional effluent.

� �

PMC-7-2 Rigorous assessment of environmental impacts of

existing operation, and predict environmental

consequences of expanded operations

� �

PMC-7-3 Implement best management practices during

construction of the works to prevent impacts on

Hearnes Lake and tributaries, especially in respect to

erosion and sediment control.

� �

Comments:

Review of existing information suggests that the existing operation is not having a significant impact

on the quality of water in Double Crossing Creek or Hearnes Lake. This would need to be maintained

if the operation was to be expanded.

See also:

M-1



E-1 – Raise awareness of SIMP / Hearnes Lake values

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Education targeting permanent residents and visitors that explains the ecological values of

Hearnes Lake and the role it plays to the importance of the overall SIMP.


Responsibility: MPA (support by CHCC, NRCMA, DECC)

Cost: $20,000 to develop site-specific education material and signage, then $5,000 /yr for

dissemination.

Performance Measure: A more informed and aware community that is more responsible regarding

the use of the lake and surrounds.

Actions:


E-1-1 Develop a range of eco-educational materials,

including brochures, signage, school resource kits that

provide site-specific information regarding Hearnes

Lake and the SIMP.

� �

E-1-2 Distribute eco-educational materials to permanent

residents and visitors on a regular basis (at least once

per year) to reinforce information and maintain

awareness levels.

� �

Comments:

Community education should target, as a minimum:

• Domestic nutrient reduction;

• Domestic and public vegetation management;

• Domestic / companion animal management;

• Impacts of human activities, including informal foreshore and waterway access;

• Threatened species conservation;

• Legal fishing limits and other SIMP restrictions

• Bushfire Management.

See also:

E-2, E-3, E-4



R-6 – Revegetation of foreshores and in catchment

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Revegetation of ecologically important areas throughout the catchment, including the buffer

area around Hearnes Lake, riparian zones along tributaries and watercourses, and wildlife corridors

across the landscape. Revegetation of private lands is likely to require incentives.


Responsibility: CHCC and landholders (support by NRCMA and DECC)

Cost: $200,000 depending on resources and incentives offered to private landholders

Performance Measure: Increased coverage of native vegetation around the Hearnes Lake foreshore

and throughout the catchment more generally.

Actions:


R-6-1 Identify revegetation and rehabilitation works around

Hearnes Lake and throughout the catchment included

within broader revegetation strategies

� �

R-6-2 Support Landcare and other groups to progressively

implement rehabilitation and revegetation programs. � �

R-6-3 Hold one-on-one discussions with key landholders

requiring revegetation and rehabilitation of private

lands, and agree on terms of incentives to undertake

works.

� �

Comments:

The NRCMA is currently working with private landholders in the Hearnes Lake catchment to

remediate steep lands, mainly old and disused banana lands.

Revegetation can be incorporated into consent conditions for future developments within the

catchment. Once revegetated, private lands of conservation significance can be protected through

Conservation Agreements in negotiation with the NRCMA or DECC.

See also:

PMC-1, DC-1, PMC-3

See Figure 6-5 for proposed revegetation north of Hearnes Lake.



R-3 – Appropriate sewerage system management

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Existing and future sewerage systems around Hearnes Lake should be sized and

managed to minimise overflows entering Hearnes Lake, and should include contributions from the

Caravan Park. Existing and future infrastructure should also consider the variable water levels of the

lake and the potential for significant water level increase with future sea level rise.

Timeframe: Short Term (1 – 3yrs)


Cost: Depends on mitigative works required, say $100,000.

Performance Measure: Reduction in sewage overflows directed to Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


R-3-1 Assess existing sewerage system in catchment (eg

Sandy Beach) for under-capacity and potential

overflows within a planning horizon

� �

R-3-2 Upgrade existing sewerage infrastructure, as

necessary, to prevent future overflows to Hearnes

Lake

� �

R-3-3 Ensure design of future sewerage infrastructure

prevents overflows to Hearnes Lake, and adequately

accommodates future sea level rise (ie allow for

inundation up to RL 3.5m AHD minimum)

� �

Comments:

Minimal works should be required to the existing system given relatively recent connection to

reticulated sewerage. Future sewerage networks will be designed and constructed as development

within the catchment progresses.

See also:

R-1



PMC-2 – Incorporate foreshore and coastal buffers into CCRP

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Following the dedication of foreshore buffers around Hearnes Lake, these lands should be

incorporated into the Coffs Coast Regional Park. Further, the existing coastal dune vegetation

between Hearnes Lake entrance and Willis Creek entrance, and the development buffers from this

vegetation, should be included into the CCRP. This would provide connectivity between areas of the

CCRP to the north of Willis Creek and to the south of Hearnes Lake.

Timeframe: Medium Term (3 – 5 yrs)

Responsibility: CHCC, DECC

Cost: Staff time only (additional resources required to manage and maintain the land, some costs

may be required for initial land rehabilitation, possibly offset by developer contributions)

Performance Measure: Inclusion of subject lands within gazetted area for Coffs Coast Regional Park.

Actions:


PMC-2-1 Modify Developer Contributions Plan to include

developer contributions to the rehabilitation /

maintenance of former private lands handed over to

the public as a condition of development consent.

� �

PMC-2-2 Establish Memorandum of Understanding with DECC

that existing private lands to be handed over to

Council as a condition of development consent will be

incorporated into CCRP.

� �

PMC-2-3 Once sufficient foreshore and coastal buffer lands are

in public ownership, formally modify the extents of

CCRP

� �

PMC-2-4 Erect appropriate signage and carry out periodic

maintenance in accordance with the CCRP Plan of

Management.

� �

Comments:

Costs associated with hand-over and initial maintenance / rehabilitation could be covered by

developer contributions. This would need to be specified as part of the Developer Contributions Plan

for the area.

See also:

PMC-1



R-7 – Rehabilitate former timber mill and other lands

Priority: HIGH

Strategy: Remediation of the disused timber mill adjacent to Double Crossing Creek as well as any

other lands within the catchment that are potentially affected by contamination from historical

landuses.


Responsibility: Landholders (support by CHCC, DECC-EPA)

Cost: Unknown, depending on extent of contamination

Performance Measure: No pollutant discharge or leachate from contamination sites that can

potentially degrade the Hearnes Lake environment.

Actions:


R-7-1 Amend DCP to require any potential contaminated

lands to be assessed and remediated, as necessary,

prior to consideration for future land development.

� �

R-7-2 Carry out a detailed site assessment of the timber mill

to determine the extent of land contamination and a

recommended strategy for remediation.

� �

R-7-3 Implement remediation measures and monitor over an

extended period (say 5 years) to determine

effectiveness of measures prior to any change in

landuse.

� �

Comments:

As well as the former timber mill, some former banana lands in the upper catchment area may be

contaminated due to historic pesticide use.

Adequate sediment and erosion controls will be essential during and after rehabilitation works.

See also:

M-1



MEDIUM PRIORITY STRATEGIES



M-1 – Water quality monitoring

Priority: MEDIUM

Strategy: Undertake periodic monitoring and assessment of the water within Hearnes Lake for

compliance with human health (primary contact recreation activities) and provide commentary on the

general health of the estuary. Monitoring should be carried out in accordance with water quality

standards and guidelines (ie at least 4 times per month during peak swimming season).


Responsibility: CHCC (support by DECC-EPA)

Cost: Staff time for collection, plus $20,000 /yr for commercial lab analysis.

Performance Measure: Documented record of compliance of Hearnes Lake water quality to human

health standards, and on environmental status of Hearnes Lake with respect to physical and chemical

water quality parameters.

Actions:


M-1-1 Monitor water levels within Hearnes Lake. Periodically

(every 2-3yrs say), assess the value of continuing data

collection.

� �

M-1-2 Prepare and implement a pilot monitoring program (for

a period of approximately 12 months) to determine

logistics, costs, suitable locations and feasibility of

monitoring.

� �

M-1-3 Pending outcomes from the pilot monitoring program,

prepare and implement a permanent water quality

monitoring program that assesses the suitability of

Hearnes Lake for human health.

� �

Comments:

Monitoring should be carried out in accordance with water quality standards and guidelines (ie at

least 4 times per month during peak swimming season) at locations that concentrate waterway use.

Given the ponded nature of Hearnes Lake, pollutants may be dispersed evenly around the waterway

by wind-driven circulation currents. Non-compliance of water quality to human health standards

should be notified to the public (advising of potential risks) and identification and management of

sources of pollutants.

Monitoring should be carried out as a function of catchment runoff to determine of the response of the

lake to catchment pollutant inputs. Monitoring should target repetitive sampling at different time

periods after the runoff event. A number of events should be monitored each year of varying

magnitude and during different seasons. Monitoring should target key environmental response

indicators, such as dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll-a, turbidity and nutrients. Water quality should also



be correlated to water levels and entrance breakout events to determine the impacts of

hydrodynamics on environmental water quality conditions.

See also:

nil



E-3 – Raise awareness regarding risks to users

Priority: MEDIUM

Strategy: Users of Hearnes Lake are to be made more aware of the potential risks associated with

their activities, particularly at certain times (eg after rain events or after entrance breakout). This

would include any primary contact activities (eg swimming, kayaking), fishing, and 4WDing. Risks

should be highlighted via appropriate signage and periodic education campaigns. If water quality is

consistently not conforming to human health standards, then this information could be signposted at

key recreational access points.


Responsibility: CHCC (support by MPA)

Cost: $5,000 + some staff time

Performance Measure: Increased awareness of risks by users, and thus a reduction of use of the

lake during periods of increased risk (eg after rainfall events).

Actions:


E-3-1 Erect signage that clearly outlines potential risks to

users of the lake and surrounding lands. � �

E-3-2 Continue to update signage as new information about

Hearnes Lake and its response to inputs becomes

available.

� �

E-3-3 Include information regarding risks to users within all

educational material prepared for Hearnes Lake. � �

Comments:

The main risk to users relates to bacterial contamination of the water, as a result of local on-site

sewage management systems and other catchment inputs. Given the turn around time for

microbiological laboratory analysis, the potential delay in notification should be redressed through a

blanket notification advising of likely poor water quality conditions following all rainfall events. The

timeframe for which this would be applicable should be subject to initial investigative sampling (ie

determine how quickly after rainfall event bacteria levels fall to below recreational standards).

4WD use around the lake is also risky, particularly for vehicles crossing the entrance channel given

the presence of shallow and irregular rocky outcrops within the channel.

See also:

E-1, M-1



M-3 – Re-map aquatic vegetation

Priority: MEDIUM

Strategy: On a periodic basis, estuarine vegetation within Hearnes Lake should be remapped.

Variations in extent of vegetation can be used to provide an indication of response to changing

environmental conditions (erg water quality, hydrology, climate, entrance conditions etc).


Responsibility: MPA (support by DPI-Fisheries, CHCC, NRCMA)

Cost: $20,000 per episode (expect 2 in next 10 years).

Performance Measure: Documented record of estuarine vegetation extents within Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


M-3-1 Using a range of techniques (aerial photography

interpretation, ground truthing, echo sounding habitat

mapping, underwater video), remap the extents of

estuarine vegetation (mangroves, saltmarsh,

seagrass) within Hearnes Lake.

� �

M-3-2 Repeat re-mapping exercise at frequency of

approximately 5 years. � �

Comments:

Estuarine vegetation has recently been mapped by DPI-Fisheries. Remapping of vegetation would

therefore not be required for about 5 years, and approximately each 5 years thereafter.

See also:

nil



M-4 – Monitoring of biological indicators

Priority: MEDIUM

Strategy: Undertake periodic monitoring of key biological parameters to provide a commentary on

the general health and biodiversity of Hearnes Lake. Monitoring would involve repeat surveys at

intervals that best reflect natural and anthropogenic change in community structure and condition.

Frequency of monitoring would depend on the community targeted and the resources available for

undertaking works.


Responsibility: MPA (support by CHCC, DPI-Fisheries, NRCMA)

Cost: $30,000 per monitoring episode (expect at least 2 in next 10 years)

Performance Measure: Documented reports on biological condition of Hearnes Lake, with

comparisons to previous monitoring episodes and commentary of extent and reasons for change.

Actions:


M-4-1 Prepare and implement a multi-faceted biological monitoring program, targeting assessment of overall environmental / estuarine health.

Ecological communities targeted by the monitoring

program may include (but not limited to) benthic fauna,

mobile aquatic fauna, estuarine vegetation condition

and seagrass depth limits. Weeds and pest species

should also be included as biological indicators of

disturbance.

� �

M-4-2 Modify program, if necessary, based on monitoring difficulties or environmental constraints

� �

Comments:

Monitoring episodes and statistical assessments could be carried out by students of UNE / National

Marine Science Centre, under the guidance and supervision of qualified ecologists.

Monitoring should be designed to consider Before-After-Control-Impact associated with the proposed

urban expansion within the Hearnes Lake feeder area.

See also:

M-2, M-3



A-2 – Additional amenities and contributions

Priority: LOW

Strategy: Install and maintain additional picnic facilities and community amenities around Hearnes

Lake, to be partly funded through Developer Contributions from future developments located in the

Hearnes Lake feeder area.



Cost: $50,000, partly funded through Developer Contributions

Performance Measure: New facilities in place and utilised by the public.

Actions:


A-2-1 Modify local or regional Developer Contributions Plan

to specify developer contributions towards recreational

facilities and amenities outside the immediate

development footprint.

� �

A-2-2 Determine the most appropriate locations and extents

of new facilities and amenities. This would be

undertaken in conjunction with Strategy A-1

(development of a Foreshore Plan of Management)

� �

A-2-3 Erect facilities and maintain to ensure minimal impact

on the lake environment. � �

Comments:

Many members of the community identified a lack of picnic facilities and public amenities around

Hearnes Lake, including picnic tables, barbeques, shelters and toilets. The need for facilities will

increase further as the local catchment population increases following future urban development.

Additional facilities and amenities should be erected around the lake to cater for the existing and

future demands on the lake. Of notable importance are waste bins. These bins would also need to be

serviced on a regular basis.

Additionally future development will result in an increased demand on existing recreational facilities

and amenities around the lake. The increased usage of the lake will also impose an increased

demand for better access to the lake foreshore and along the lake shores.

Developers should be required to provide financial contributions to upgrading or improving

recreational facilities and amenities around Hearnes Lake. The actual amounts provided by

developers should be based on the population associated with individual developments, subject to

negotiations with Council.



See also:

A-1



LOW PRIORITY STRATEGIES



PMC-5 – Conservation of private vegetation

Priority: LOW

Strategy: Encourage conservation agreements with DECC or NRCMA over private lands through

incentives. The agreements are to cover strategically identified priority areas of significant native

vegetation, habitat and environmental value located within the Hearnes Lake catchment.


Responsibility: NRCMA, DECC

Cost: Staff time only, plus scope of incentives offered to landholders

Performance Measure: Total area of private vegetation within Hearnes Lake catchment covered

under Conservation Agreements

Actions:


PMC-5-1 Identify areas within catchment that are suitable for

offering Conservation Agreements � �

PMC-5-2 Hold one-on-one discussions with landholders of

identified areas, and agree on terms of incentives for

Conservation Agreements

� �

PMC-5-3 Formally register Conservation Agreements, and

undertake works / maintenance as agreed � �

Comments:

Agreements would be based on private landholders managing their land for conservation purposes

only, and would require:

• Active rehabilitation / revegetation of degraded sensitive areas and critical habitats;

• Preventing stock access near waterways and critical habitat areas;

• Revegetation of riparian vegetation; and

• Weed and pest management.

Incentives could be provided under the DECC administered Native Vegetation Incentive Fund,

NRCMA programs or DECC (NPWS) programs.

Maintenance of the lands subject to conservation agreements would remain the responsibility of

landholders.

See also:

PMC-3, E-4



E-2 – Raise awareness of cultural values

Priority: LOW

Strategy: In consultation with the Aboriginal community, highlight the cultural significance and value

of Hearnes Lake to the local indigenous people through a range of educational media.


Responsibility: CHCC, LALC

Cost: $20,000 for set-up plus some on-going costs for redistribution

Performance Measure: Dissemination of Aboriginal cultural information to the local community and

other users of Hearnes Lake.

Actions:


E-2-1 Design an Aboriginal heritage communication and

education program, incorporating a range of media

and approaches, such as brochures, field signage,

videos, etc., and link with existing schools education

program, if possible.

� �

E-2-2 Implement Aboriginal heritage communication and

education program � �

Comments:

Community education programs could include bush tucker tours, dreamtime stories and

demonstrations of Aboriginal practices, for example.

Other environmental education programs (refer Strategy E-1) should also incorporate information

regarding Aboriginal cultural values. Cultural signage should be located for maximum exposure, such

as at key access points to the lake.

See also:

E-1



H-1 – Fishing cottage at lake entrance

Priority: LOW

Strategy: Assess the feasibility of restoring and retaining one of the old fishing cottages located at the

entrance to Hearnes Lake. Once restored, the cottage could be used for a range of commercial,

educational or administrative activities, and promotion of the CCRP.


Responsibility: Dpt of Lands (support by CHCC and DECC)

Cost: $20,000 for feasibility assessment (possibly $100,000+ for restoration)

Performance Measure: Report on the feasibility of restoration and retention (for historical value) of a

fishing cottage at Hearnes Lake entrance.

Actions:


H-1-1 Undertake a cost/benefit assessment on the value of

restoring and retaining one of the historical fishing

cottages at Hearnes Lake entrance.

� �

H-1-2 If considered justified, undertake works to restore one

of the cottages and implement a long-term

management plan for the property.

� �

Comments:

Cottages remain under permissive occupancy leases until the lessee hands back the rights or dies.

The progressive relinquishment of the leases over the cottages therefore is expected to take some

time.

See also:

nil

FUNDING OF THE PLAN 105


8 FUNDING OF THE PLAN

8.1 Funding requirements

The total cost of the Plan over the first 5 years is approximately $1.3 million, comprising $1.12 million

for capital works, and $190,000 for on-going funding commitments (maximum annual commitment =

$70,000).

11 of the 29 strategies will require no external funding, as they can be implemented using existing

staff only (although the capabilities of existing work force to take on additional tasks may need to be

assessed). Some additional tasks could also be carried out internally by stakeholders depending on

skills of staff (these tasks have assumed to be outsourced at present).

A summary of the funding requirements and associated timing for the funding is presented in Table

8-1. As shown in this table, all critically strategies to be implemented in the immediate and short term

require no external funding, as the tasks can be undertaken by stakeholder staff. The most

expensive strategies involve major investment in infrastructure (eg stormwater treatment measures,

Strategy DC-2; sewerage management measures, Strategy R-3), and revegetation (Strategy R-6).

These three strategies account for half of the Plan’s capital expenditure.

Table 8-1 Funding requirements for Plan implementation

Immediate Short Term Medium Term TOTAL

Critical $0

$0

$300,000

$300,000 capital

$0 on-go

Very High $200,000 capital $25,000/yr on-go

$20,000/yr on-go

$0

$200,000 capital $45,000/yr on-go

High $0

$370,000 capital $5,000/yr on-go

$0

$370,000 capital $5,000/yr on-go

Medium $0

$5,000 capital

$20,000/yr on-go

$100,000 capital

$105,000 capital $20,000/yr on-go

Low $0

$0

$140,000 capital

$140,000 capital

$0 on-go

TOTAL

$200,000 capital $25,000/yr on-go

$375,000 capital $45,000/yr on-go

$540,000 capital

$0 on-go

$1,115,000 cap

$70,000/yr on-go



8.2 Possible funding sources

Council is expected to fund parts of this Estuary Management Plan using environmental budget

allocations of general revenue. Given the high costs for overall implementation, however, the Plan will

be reliant upon receiving external grants and funding to be successful, some of which will require

matching funding from Council.

Primary funding sources include the NSW Government’s Estuary Management Program (refer

Section 8.2.1), the Northern Rivers Catchment Action Plan initiatives (refer Section 8.2.2), and a suite

of grant programs offered by local, state and federal government, as well as some private

organisations (refer Section 8.2.3).

In-kind contributions for completion of some of the elements of this Estuary Management Plan could

also come from various educational institutions (such as universities), who could use the estuary for

specific data collection or research projects. In-kind contributions could also come from volunteer

community groups, such as Landcare, Creekcare, and schools.

Opportunities should also be explored to utilise environmentally-oriented volunteer teams, such as

Greening Australia, Green Corps and Work for the Dole, to assist with physically demanding

elements of the Plan, such as revegetation works.

8.2.1 Estuary Management Program

Given that this Estuary Management Plan has been prepared in accordance with the NSW

Government’s Estuary Management Process, all works recommended by this Plan are eligible for

part (50:50) funding under the NSW Estuary Management Program. The only works that would not

be funded would be capital infrastructure works associated with Council’s sewerage system (ie

Strategy R-3).

8.2.2 Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority

The NRCMA has prepared an endorsed Catchment Action Plan (NRCMA, 2006), which outlines the

aims, objectives and strategies for catchment management across the whole of the NSW North

Coast region. Management Target C2 of the Catchment Action Plan (CAP) pertains to the

completion of Management Plans and implementation of priority strategies that contribute to

improved natural resource condition. The CAP also contains biodiversity and water themes, which

would also be relevant to this Estuary Management Plan. Subject to receipt of external project

funding, there is potential for the NRCMA to partly or wholly fund actions related to natural resource

management within the Hearnes Lake plan, such as strategic planning, community engagement,

educational and on-ground implementation where consistent with the NRCAP, NRCMA strategic

priorities, NSW State Targets and Australian Government priorities. This could contribute to the

implementation of the following strategies:

• PMC-3: Appropriate vegetation management

• PMC-5: Conservation of privately owned vegetation

• DC-2: Management of stormwater from existing and future development with adoption of

WSUD principles (particularly where contributions can be made toward Water Management



Target W-1 River Structure, Riparian Vegetation and Fish Passage, and Coastal Management

Target C2 – Estuaries and Coastal Lakes).

• R-6: Revegetation of foreshores and within the catchment

• R-7: Rehabilitate former timber mill and other degraded lands

• R-8: Remove environmental weeds and control pests

• R-9: Remove cattle from lake margins and fence across waterway

• E-1: Raise awareness of habitat value of Hearnes Lake and importance of SIMP

• E-2: Raise awareness of cultural values

• E-4: Rural education program promoting best practice environmental management

8.2.3 Environmental Grants Programs

There are a number of state and federal government grant programs, and private foundations that

should be explored for potential funding of various strategies outlined within this Estuary

Management Plan. A number of these grant programs

Funding authority Example applicable

strategies

Natural Resource Management

Environmental Research Program DECC M-3, M-4

Forging Partnerships Program National Resources

Advisory Council

E-4, E-5

Urban Sustainability Grants DECC R-1, DC-2

Envirofund 2 NHT DC-2, R-6, R-7, R-8, R-9,

A-3, A-1, E-1, E-4

Restoration and Rehabilitation Program DECC R-6, R-7

Environmental Education

Eco-Schools Program DECC E-1, E-2

Environmental Education Program DECC E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, E-6

Commonwealth Environmental Education

Grants Program

DEH E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, E-6

Invasive Species

Local weed coordination and weed control DPI R-8, E-1, E-4

State Priority Weed Projects DPI R-8

2 The Natural Heritage Trust program has recently been replaced by the Federal “Caring for our Country”

program



Funding authority Example applicable

strategies

Regional Weeds Plans and Group Funding DPI R-8

Defeating the Weed Menace fund Australian Government R-8, E-1, E-4

National Feral Animal Control program

NHT R-8, E-1, E-4

Marine and Coasts

Coastal Management Program DECC PMC-1, PMC-6, A-3, A-1

Estuary Management Program DECC All strategies, refer

Section 8.2.1.

Primary production

Natural Resource Innovation Grants National Landcare

Program

E-4

Environmental Management Systems Cth DAFF E-4, PMC-5

Water efficiency

Water Smart Australia Program Australian Government

Water Fund

E-4

General, planning and community

Community grants programs CHCC E-5, R-6, R-8

Community support grants National Landcare

Program

E-5, R-6, R-8

Corporate Community Program BHP Billiton E-2, E-5, DC-2, R-6, R-8,

PMC-5

Planning Reform Funding Program Department of

Planning

PMC-1, PMC-3, PMC-6,

PMC-8, DC-1, DC-5, A-2

Project AWARE Foundation Grants Project AWARE E-5, R-6, R-8

Macquarie Bank Foundation Macquarie Bank E-5, R-6, R-8

Natural Environment Grants Myer Foundation E-5, R-6, R-8

Westpac Operation Backyard Westpac Banking

Corporation

E-5, R-6, R-8

Ian Potter Foundation Grants Ian Potter Foundation R-6, R-8

ACCOMMODATING FUTURE CLIMATE CHANGE 109


9 ACCOMMODATING FUTURE CLIMATE CHANGE

9.1 Background

Contributions from increased anthropogenic gas emissions into the Earth’s atmosphere and its

associated acceleration of the ‘greenhouse-effect’ and thus rapid climate change is now a widely

accepted scientific phenomenon. The characteristics of a rapidly changing climate are now

recognised (Steffen, 2006). For example, WMO (2005) state that, with the exception of 1996, the last

10 years (1996 – 2005) have been the hottest years on record (globally averaged). In Australia, 2005

was the hottest year on record, at a temperature of 1.09°C higher than the 1961-1990 average (BoM,

2006). The past four years in Australia have been consistently significantly hotter than the 1961-1990

average (refer Figure 9-1).

Figure 9-1 Australian average temperature variation, 1910 – 2005 compared to 1961-1990

average (Source: BoM, 2006)

Increasing air temperatures across the globe in the future will cause a variety of climatic effects,

including sea level rise, increased atmospheric and ocean temperatures, and changes to rainfall and

drought patterns. Changes to climate in the next 30 – 50 years are considered inevitable, regardless

of possible reductions in anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions (Lord et al. 2005).

In compliance with the ‘Precautionary Principle’, as espoused by the NSW Coastal Policy (refer

Section 1.7), management of Hearnes Lake over the next 50 to 100 years needs to accommodate

the potential impacts of climate change, despite the degree of uncertainty in many areas of climatic

predictions. In particular, Objective 2.2 of the Coastal Policy requires the consideration of future



climate change in the planning and management of coastal resources and development and

promotes a ‘risk averse’ approach to decision making.

To assist with longer term strategic and land-use planning, the NSW Government has released a

Draft Sea Level Rise Policy Statement, which recommends consideration of a sea level rise of 0.9m

by 2100. In addition, CHCC has adopted to use a future sea level rise of 0.91m by 2100 for planning

purposes.

9.2 Predicted Changes Associated with the Enhanced Greenhouse Effect

Sea level rise is the most accepted of the predictions associated with climate change, however,

predictions as to the extent of this rise vary greatly due to the uncertainty of greenhouse gas

concentrations in the future and disagreement on the effect of various levels of such gases (Walsh

2004b).

Greenhouse gases within the atmosphere, enhanced by past, current and future human activities

across the globe, are expected to cause an increase in global atmospheric temperatures and will

represent the most significant global temperature variation in the last 10,000 years (IPCC 2001).

Macadam et al (2007) report changes to average temperature based on previous work by Holper et

al (2006), scaled by global warming values to produce projections of change for 2030 and 2070.

Using the two climate models and a range of global warming values, the daily maximum air

temperature is likely to increase by between 0.5 and 1.5°C by 2030, and by between 1.1 and 4.6°C

by 2070 (annually averaged). The annually averaged daily minimum air temperature is also likely to

increase, by between 0.5 and 1.4°C by 2030, and by between 1.1 and 4.3°C by 2070.

Mean sea level, on a global scale, has been increasing over the past century, due primarily to the

thermal expansion of the oceans as ocean temperature has increased (Cabanes et al., 2001), as well

as glacial melting (Walsh et al., 2002). Over the past 50 years or so, the widely adopted average sea

level rise has been approximately 1.8mm/yr (Walsh, 2004; Church et al., 2005). Sea level rise has

not occurred consistently, however, with the most recent trend (since the early 1990s) having an

accelerated rise or around 3.4 mm/yr, as captured by the TOPEX, and more recently Jason, satellite

data.

While there is a high degree of uncertainty with respect to projections for future change to rainfall and

wave climate, future sea level rise is more certain. IPCC (2007) project an increase in mean sea level

of between 0.18 and 0.59m by the end of the 21st century, with the possibility of an additional 0.1 to

0.2m due to ice sheet flow. Further, CSIRO has predicted additional localised sea level rise of up to

0.12m on the east coast of Australia due to thermal effects of the East Australian Current (McInnes et

al., 2007) (ie up to 0.91m). Based on the trend measured by most recent satellite observations, it is

likely that future sea level rise will track close to the upper limit of these projections, while a level of up

to 1.4m above 1990 sea levels may be possible (Rahmstorf, 2007).

Importantly, it must be recognised that sea level rise will not stop at the end of this century (the limit of

most reasonable projections). Indeed it is reported that the inertia of thermal expansion held within

the oceans now will result in continued sea level rise for many centuries or even millennia, regardless

of any future controls on CO2 emissions or global air temperature changes. Thus, sea levels may be

several metres higher than present before they once again stabilise, particularly if large land ice



masses, such as Greenland, melt (IPCC, 2007). Such circumstances would essentially re-start

geomorphic evolutionary processes on the coast, including the landward transgression of coastal

barriers and the associated impoundments behind them. Sea level rise in Australia is also likely to be

affected by the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a decadal cycle characterised by periods of

drought and dryer weather during the El Nino phase of the cycle, and relatively high rainfall and

wetter weather during the La Nina phase. The likely effects of a warmer climate on the ENSO are not

currently well understood.

On-going sea level rise beyond our immediate planning horizon prompts the recommendation for

adoption of conservative sea level rise estimates, as well as the initiation of a program of adaptation

and accommodation of continuously rising seas in the future.

An increase in mean sea level would result in an upward and landward translation of ocean beach

profiles (Bruun 1962, Dean and Maurmeyer 1983, Hanslow et al. 2000), thus causing net shoreline

recession (refer Figure 9-2). The changed beach processes will result in a net upward shift in typical

berm heights of coastal lake entrances.

Changes to wave climates and the direction of wave impact are also predicted in association with the

enhanced greenhouse effect. Specifically, east coast low pressure systems, which are currently

responsible for the majority of storm surge water levels and coastal erosion on the NSW coast, may

increase in frequency in the future (Walsh 2004a, Hennessey et al. 2004b). Hennessey et al. (2004b)

suggest that in NSW, waves from the southeast will become more dominant, and waves from the

northeast will become less so.

Figure 9-2 Shoreline response to increasing sea level (Hanslow et al., 2000)

Hennessey et al. (2004b) also suggest climate change will cause a decrease in rainfall during winter

and spring, and an increase in rainfall during summer for north coast areas of NSW. The intensity of

summer storms is forecast to increase by nearly 22% by 2030 (Hennessey et al. 2004b) across

NSW. Both Walsh (2004a) and Hennessey et al. (2004b) (in relation to NSW specifically) comment

that, overall, annual rainfall is likely to decrease, but rainfall volume per storm could potentially

increase.

In addition to rainfall changes, higher atmospheric temperatures are likely to increase evaporation

rates (Hennessy et al., 2004a). As a consequence of reduced rainfall and increased evaporation, it is

expected that average streamflow in Australia will decrease (Walsh, 2004a).



9.3 Impacts of Climate Change on Hearnes Lake

The impacts of sea level rise on Hearnes Lake would include an increase in the average height of the

entrance berm, which means that lake water levels would need to reach a higher level before

inducing breakout across the berm. Typical water levels within the lake can therefore be considered

to increase contemporaneously with increasing sea levels as long as the entrance is not artificially

modified.

The predicted reduction in total rainfall, combined with an increase in evaporation due to the warmer

atmospheric temperature, would reduce the capacity of catchment runoff to fill Hearnes Lake. With

reduced catchment runoff and a larger storage potential associated with the higher entrance berm,

the frequency of an open entrance will reduce, thus increasing the overall proportion of time that the

entrance is closed. Possible rotation of Hearnes Lake Beach, to be more aligned with southerly

oriented swell, may further increase the amount of sand in the Hearnes Lake entrance compartment,

increasing the height of the berm and reducing the frequency of breakouts (Haines and Thom, 2007).

An increase in the proportion of time that the lake entrance is closed is considered to increase the

natural sensitivity of the lake to external inputs (Haines et al., 2006).

Further, future increases in typical water temperature of the lake may degrade water quality, by

reducing dissolved oxygen, and changing the solution of various salts and therefore dissolved

nutrients, metals and pollutants in the water column. In turn, aquatic species may respond to

changes in water chemistry, most notably, algal productivity may increase, causing flow on effects to

higher trophic levels of ecology. The distribution of aquatic flora and fauna may also be expected to

change in response to higher water temperatures.

9.4 Planning Considerations for Future Climate Change at Hearnes Lake

Management of climate change in the future will involve adaptation of systems to new environmental

conditions. Momentum associated with the climate system will result in many more impacts over the

next several decades (Steffen, 2006). It is considered that the ability of a system to adapt to these

changes and impacts will determine its ability to survive in a future warmer world.

Many environmental systems, such as wetlands, will survive providing that their migration path is not

inhibited and that the rate of migration / species adaptation can keep-up with rate of climate change

(see DEH 2003).

When planning for future development, consideration should be given to conditions at the end of (and

beyond) a realistic planning horizon (say 100 years for residential development). It is important that

protection of property and infrastructure built today will not be reliant upon artificial entrance

management to avoid inundation at some point in the future. Imposing such conditions on future

generations of landuse managers is considered inconsistent with the principles of Ecologically

Sustainable Development (which this Estuary Management Plan is required to satisfy, in accordance

with the central theme of the NSW Coastal Policy).

At present, the maximum natural breakout level of Hearnes Lake is expected to be within the range

2.2 to 3.0m AHD. With an assumed increase in sea level rise of 0.9 metres by the end of this century



(as per the NSW Draft Sea Level Rise Policy, and the adopted CHCC Sea Level Rise Policy), the

natural breakout level by 2100 could be as high as RL 3.1 to 3.9m AHD. This Estuary Management

Plan recommends future development around the estuary is setback a minimum of 50 metres beyond

the RL 3.5m AHD contour (ie the mid-value within the range of possible maximum berm levels).

The vertical buffer (Figure 9-3) applied to all future development will allow for the natural expansion of

the lagoon and will allow existing vegetation communities to migrate upslope without being inhibited

by new infrastructure. Meanwhile, the horizontal buffer (Figure 9-3), applied to the landward extent of

the vertical buffer, will maintain sustainable functioning of fringing riparian ecosystems and protect the

waterway environment from the many potential impacts associated with adjacent urban development

(including impacts associated with increased demand on amenity) (Haines, 2005).

In addition to the above, the horizontal buffer can be used to accommodate additional inundation

around the foreshore in the event that flooding exceeds RL 3.5m AHD, while the vertical buffer allows

for additional set-back between the waterway and future development (more than the 50m buffer)

during times of normal water level (and during breakouts at lower berm levels).

Figure 9-3 Vertical and horizontal buffers to accommodate future sea level rise

(adapted from Haines, 2005)

Please note that this Estuary Management Plan has not made specific recommendations with

respect to Floodplain Risk Management, and the need to manage flooding risk in the context of future

climate change.

Max. existing berm level

Max. future berm level

Buffer

to m

ain

tain

eco

logic

al

funct

ion a

round w

ate

rway

Buffer

to a

llow

for

natu

ral

exp

ansi

on o

f w

ate

rway

with

fu

ture

sea le

vel r

ise

Total buffer between water and development

Horizontal buffer

Vertical buffer

Max. existing water level



Management of existing development within the vertical and horizontal buffer provisions will need to

be on a site by site basis. Periodic review of this Estuary Management Plan will provide a

mechanism for slowly modifying the management of existing assets and infrastructure in the future.

It is considered that the strategies of this Plan address the need for system adaptation associated

with future climate change, and sea level rise in particular.

MONITORING, EVALUATION AND AMENDMENTS 115


10 MONITORING, EVALUATION AND AMENDMENTS

10.1 Monitoring of Plan Success

The success of the Estuary Management Plan should be gauged through its ability to achieve the

designated targets. The overarching targets are the Management Objectives, as described in

Section 5. However, the timeframe for achieving some of these objectives is long (given the slow

rate of vegetation establishment and growth, for example). To gain a better appreciation for the

relative success of the Plan, a series of evaluation measures can be assessed on a periodic basis.

Different types of evaluation measures are discussed in more detail below.

10.1.1 Primary Evaluation Measures

The first set of evaluation measures should ascertain whether the strategies are being implemented

within the timeframe designated in the Plan. As such, the primary performance measures are simply

a measure of implementation.

The Estuary Management Plan recommends some 29 different strategies over a period of 5 years.

Many of these strategies will need to be carried out concurrently. Organisations responsible for

implementation will need to review the Plan carefully and ensure that adequate resources are

allocated to the various strategies to ensure that the timeframe for implementation is achieved.

Clearly, a high degree of co-ordination will be required to manage the successful implementation of

all the strategies within the designated timeframe. This co-ordination should be facilitated by

Council’s Coast and Estuary Management Advisory Committee, who would be required to meet

regularly to discuss and manage the implementation of the estuary management strategies.

If it is determined that the strategies are not being implemented to the nominated timeframe then one

or both of the following contingencies should be adopted:

• Determine the cause for the delay in implementation. If delays are funding based, then seek

alternative sources of funding, including a formal request to Council to increase contributions to

the Plan. If delays are resource-based, seek additional assistance from stakeholder agencies

and/or consider using an external consultancy to coordinate implementation of the Plan;

• Modify and update the Estuary Management Plan to reflect a timeframe for implementation that

is more achievable. The revised Plan would need to be endorsed by all relevant stakeholders

and agencies responsible for implementation.

10.1.2 Secondary Evaluation Measures

The second set of evaluation measures relate to measuring specific performance outputs from the

individual strategies, as appropriate. The specific outputs from each strategy, are provided within the

Implementation Schedules (refer Section 7) under ‘Performance measure’. These measures define

what the specific outcome from each strategy should be. If these outputs are delivered as defined,

then the strategy is considered to have been successful.



If the defined performance measures are not generated as a result of implementation of the strategy

then the following contingencies need to be adopted:

• Determine the reason for not producing the specified output. If the reason involves a lack of

funding or resources, then similar contingency measures to those described for the primary

performance measures (refer Section 10.1.1) should be adopted. If the reason is of a technical

nature, then expertise in the area should be consulted to overcome the technical problem.

DECC and other government agencies should have the necessary in-house expertise to assist in

most cases.

• Review the appropriateness of the specific output of the management strategy, and if necessary,

modify the output described in the Plan to define a more achievable product.

10.1.3 Tertiary Evaluation Measures

The third set of evaluation measures are aimed at measuring the outcomes of the Plan, and as such

relate to the specific management objectives of the Plan (as described in Section 5), and how

implementation of the Plan has made a difference to the biophysical and social environments of

Hearnes Lake (eg reduction in pollutant loads, improvement in swimming conditions, increase in

biodiversity etc). The main mechanism for gauging whether these objectives have been achieved, or

not, is monitoring. Therefore, monitoring of various elements of the physical, biological and social

environment is an essential component of assessing the overall success of the Estuary Management

Plan.

If, after a reasonable period of time, the specific objectives of the Plan are not being achieved by the

strategies being implemented, then the following contingencies should be adopted:

• Carry out a formal review of the implemented management strategies, identifying possible

avenues for increasing the effectiveness of the strategy in meeting the Plan objectives;

• Commence implementation of additional management strategies that may assist in meeting Plan

objectives (possibly ‘fast-track’ some longer term strategies as necessary);

• Reconsider the objectives of the Plan to determine if they set impossible targets for future

estuary conditions, and adjust the Plan, as necessary. Any such changes to the Plan would

need to be endorsed by the stakeholders and relevant government agencies, as well as the

public.

10.2 Reviews and Amendments

Periodic reviews and amendments of this Estuary Management Plan are necessary to ensure that it

remains current and relevant to the environmental management and planning framework in which it

operates.

It is proposed that the Hearnes Lake Estuary Management Plan is reviewed on a regular basis, and

completely updated within a period of about 5 years (ie before end 2012). A regular review of the

Plan (which may occur annually, for example) is necessary to allow modifications / alterations to the

management of the estuary, on an as-needed basis, within the context of an adaptive management

framework.



The periodic Estuary Management Plan reviews should cover the topics described in Table 10-1.

This table also outlines who is responsible for conducting the periodic reviews.

It is possible that the NSW Government’s Estuary Management Program, under which this Plan has

been prepared and will be implemented, may change in the future. A new Coastal Zone

Management Manual is currently in preparation, and will combine and replace the existing Estuary

Management Manual (1992) and the Coastline Management Manual (1990). Therefore, on-going

liaison between Council, DECC and the NRCMA is necessary to ensure that the aims and objectives

of the Hearnes Lake Estuary Management Plan continue to be achieved in the future.

Table 10-1 Framework for Future Estuary Management Plan Review

Review Period Review tasks Responsibility

Annual • Assess primary, secondary and tertiary evaluation measures, and determine appropriate contingencies if performance measures do not meet targets

• Review funding arrangements and allocations for current and future management strategies

• Review resourcing and staffing allocations for current and future management strategies

• Provide report on progress of Estuary Management Plan implementation, results of annual review, and any modifications required to the Plan coming out of the review

Estuary Management Committee or appointed

external consultant*

To be coordinated through Council and reported to

Council, relevant stakeholders and government

agencies

5 Yearly

(first review to be completed by end 2013)

• Assess the overall effectiveness of each management strategy implemented to date

• For strategies requiring on-going commitment, assess the value in maintaining implementation of those strategies

• Reconsider the management options that were not short-listed and included in the original Plan

• Provide implementation details of additional strategies that are to be included in the subsequent 5 year Plan

• Update the Estuary Management Plan document to reflect proposed strategies for implementation over the next 5 year period, and seek endorsement by stakeholders, government agencies and the community.

Estuary Management Committee or appointed

external consultant*

To be coordinated through Council and reported to

Council, relevant stakeholders government agencies and the general

community

* It would be advantageous for the same consultant responsible for initially preparing the Estuary

Management Plan to be involved in the annual review and 5-yearly update, given their appreciation of

the study area and the details of the Plan and associated strategies.



10.3 Amendment Record

This Plan was last reviewed and amended on ………………………………………………..

The next scheduled review is due ………………………………………………………………

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